WANDERERS have categorically denied talks have taken place with an Irish consortium over a potential takeover of the club.

Reports from Northern Ireland over the weekend suggested a multi-million pound consortium, led by businessman Gerry Carlile, was considering a bid for Wanderers.

But in statement to The Bolton News this morning, Wanderers say no such talks have taken place.

The statement said: "In response to an article published in The Bolton News on Monday 11 May, 2015, Bolton Wanderers can categorically deny that any talks between the club and a potential Irish consortium have taken place.

"The club will be making no further comment."

Despite the denial, there have been rumours in recent weeks talks were taking place.

And while the reported interest has now been played down by the club's bosses, manager Neil Lennon has publicly stated it was his belief talks were taking place.

Speaking just last week, Lennon said: “I think there are talks ongoing, yes, but whether it materialises or not I cannot say at this stage. I’ll leave that to the people behind the scenes."

A media report in Northern Ireland on Sunday quoted a source said to be a colleague of Carlile as saying: "Gerry is not denying it, which has only added to the speculation.”