Newcastle say they have had no approach from Hearts for Ian Cathro as Tynecastle head coach Robbie Neilson's future remains uncertain.
Cathro is the favourite to succeed Neilson should the 36-year-old complete his move to MK Dons.
Neilson confirmed after his team's victory over Rangers on Wednesday night that discussions were taking place after the Sky Bet League One club made an official approach on Monday.
While both clubs discussed compensation, Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez revealed he was in the dark over reports that Hearts had made his assistant coach, Cathro, their number-one choice to replace Neilson.
Benitez said: "Ian is a great coach. We don't have any official approach. We are happy with him and we will continue with that. He is a young coach, he has some experience and has a great future.
"The media is telling me Hearts will come, but it depends on the head coach they have at the moment if he goes or not. That is football. It is just speculation."
Neilson was at Hearts' Riccarton training ground until late on Thursday afternoon.