Derby County's administrators have said that Mike Ashley has not been in touch regarding the purchase of the club, according to a report.
There had been rumours that the former Newcastle United owner was interested in taking over Derby after he sold the Magpies for £305m last week.
The Rams were placed in administration last month, which owner Mel Morris described as a "gut-wrenching" decision.
However, BBC Sport reports that one of the club's joint administrators, Andrew Hosking, has denied any contact from Ashley.
"We can confirm we have neither been approached by nor have we entered into dialogue with Mike Ashley," Hosking said.
"As this is an ongoing process, we are unable to comment on the names of the individuals and organisations that have met this criteria at this time.
"Of those who have returned a signed non-disclosure agreement (NDA), several have been able to provide the necessary proof of funds we have requested to be considered as a serious bidder."
Ashley owned Newcastle for 14 years after buying the club in 2007, but he became hugely unpopular with supporters during his time on Tyneside.
Olly Allen
