Blackburn Rovers have rejected a transfer request from Junior Hoilett as Tottenham and Liverpool both continue to circle.
The wantaway winger was left out of Saturday's FA Cup defeat to Newcastle United with both Spurs and the Reds actively pursuing his signature during this month's window.
Steve Kean's decision to omit Hoilett is understood to centre around his submission of a written transfer request to Ewood Park chiefs on the eve of the game.
Harry Redknapp remains in the box seat to secure the 21-year-old's signature with a £7million offer as he looks to offload Niko Kranjcar.
He has spoken glowingly of the Canadian attacker despite insisting that the high-flying Spurs have not made any enquiries to the Lancashire outfit about his availability.
Liverpool, however, have been in discussions with both Blackburn and Hoilett's representatives in the previous weeks regarding the possibility of a move.
North West counterparts Bolton Wanderers have also emerged as possible contenders but are likely to be priced out of a move in addition to being one of Blackburn's relegation rivals.
Blackburn are said to be holding out for £8million to reduce their debts and strengthen their squad ahead of a testing season run-in which will determine their Premier League status.
Kean conceded last week that they are willing to listen to offers but his rejection of Hoilett's request reaffirmed prevous comments that the struggling club would be prepared to allow his current contract to tick down, running the risk of seeing him leave on a free transfer this summer,
Hoilett has been one of a few stand-out performers during Blackburn's battle for top flight survival this season with beleagured manager Kean still under intense heat from fans.
