Newcastle manager Sir Bobby Robson has dismissed suggestions by Rivaldo that the Brazilian playmaker has been approached by the Magpies.
The World Cup winner looks set to leave AC Milan after he arranged to have his contract terminated following a long-running row with coach Carlo Ancelotti.
The player has since been quoted as saying that the Magpies - as well as Chelsea and Middlesbrough - are bidding for his signature.
However, Robson has insisted he did not even know that the 31-year-old - who joined Barcelona when the United boss was technical director - is planning to leave Milan.
Moreover, Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has publicly declared that he is working to convince Rivaldo to reverse his decision and stay at the San Siro at least until December.
"I was not aware of his situation," said Robson. "He is a fine player, but at the moment I'm more concerned with dealing with the players I already have at this club."