Inverness have knocked back Dundee United's move for boss John Hughes, the club have announced in a statement.
United are on the look-out for a new boss following the sacking of Jackie McNamara and Hughes is the man they want to replace him.
The former Falkirk, Celtic and Hibernian defender led Caley Thistle to their first major honour with last season's William Hill Scottish Cup triumph and bookmakers stopped taking bets on him taking over at Tannadice after a flurry of wages backing him for the post.
However, Inverness chairman Kenny Cameron insists the Highlanders are not prepared to part with the 51-year-old.
He said: "On behalf of the Board of Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC I can confirm that Dundee Utd have, today, requested permission from the club to open discussions with team manager John Hughes."
"The club have stated previously that we wish John to remain with us for this season and beyond. This position has not changed and the approach from Dundee Utd has been rejected."
McNamara was sacked at the end of last month, with United sitting bottom of the Ladbrokes Premiership having won just one match all season.
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