Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has denied all knowledge of a move to bring Samuel Eto'o back to the San Siro.
Speculation in Italy suggested Inter were hoping to sign Eto'o on loan during the off-season in Russia, less than two months after selling him to Anzhi Makhachkala. Eto'o himself has suggested he would welcome the switch.
But Anzhi put out a strongly-worded statement denying their star man was available and Moratti claims to know nothing about it.
He told the club's official website: "I've been away until today and I don't know anything about this Eto'o story.
"I've read the newspapers and I've seen the very aggressive reaction from the Russian club but they should know that it's all news to me.
"I have never had any talks with Eto'o."
Anzhi insist the 30-year-old Cameroonian will remain in Russia during the winter to prepare for the new season.
"It's a strange idea and I intend to respect the agreement that I have with that club (Anzhi)," Moratti said.
"Of course it's pleasing that the player would gladly like to return with us but I think it's useless to discuss that because I honestly know nothing about it.
"We never spoke about this (loan) possibility during our negotiations.
"The squad is very fond of Eto'o, but I repeat there is no point talking about this because it is 90% unlikely to happen. I have no basis to comment on."
Eto'o was Inter's top scorer last season, netting a total of 37 goals in all competitions, helping the Nerazzurri win the Coppa Italia.
Inter have struggled since the departure of Eto'o and are 17th in the standings with four points from their first five league games - their worst start in Serie A in 28 years.
