CARLTON has dismissed reports it is in the hunt for Collingwood defender Heath Shaw, despite claims by Shaw's manager Ben Niall.
The Blues took to Twitter late on Friday afternoon to deny any interest, saying: "Contrary to what was reported on @traderadio, the Club can confirm that we are not in the mix for @heathshaw39".
It comes after Niall told AFL.com.au's Gillette Trade Radio that the Blues were in the race for Shaw's services.
"They are one of the clubs that have put a proposal forward," he said.
"(Malthouse and Shaw's has) always been a positive relationship. Mick's been like a mentor and more than just a coach to him for a long time.
"I would say the relationship is positive regardless of destination. I don't think they're linked in that sense."
AFL.com.au understands Shaw had preliminary discussions with Carlton however both parties eventually recognised the prospect of him reaching the Blues was slim.
Two clubs in the mix for Shaw are Greater Western Sydney and Geelong, and Niall said that was part of the defender's quandary.
"I can honestly say I don't know what his preferences are at the moment," he said.
"He's lucky he's got so many choices, but at the same time it's a very tough decision.
"He's got a choice between going to a club that's in contention, or pushing towards finals and success … or he's got an opportunity to choose a path where he can build success and really influence the environment he's in."
Niall said the Magpies were clear on what they wanted in exchange for Shaw, and all the clubs interested in Shaw could meet those needs.
