Gillingham have failed in a bid to speak to Mansfield Town boss Steve Evans about their managerial vacancy.
The Stags confirmed via social media that they have rebuffed an official approach from the League One strugglers.
"The club can confirm that it has rejected an approach from Gillingham for the services of manager Steve Evans," read a statement on the official Mansfield Twitter feed.
The Gills are seeking a new head coach following the departure of Ady Pennock last month, with director of football Peter Taylor currently in charge on an interim basis.
Gillingham are currently 23rd in League One, while Mansfield are eighth in the division below.