Cardiff City boss Lennie Lawrence has denied newspaper reports that claimed Shaun Goater had travelled to Wales for talks.

The First Division newcomers were said to have spoken with the Manchester City striker at Ninian Park but Lawrence yesterday refuted the claims.

"I have not met or had any contact with Shaun Goater or his club Manchester City," he said on the club's official website.

The speculation in Britain has arisen following an interview Lawrence gave to Wales on Sunday at the weekend.

"I might be interested in someone who can lead the attack and get goals - it's easier said than done to find someone, though," the manager said.

"As for who will come to Cardiff, that will depend on the budget figures to be discussed between myself and (chairman) Sam Hammam."

Another local newspaper went further than just linking Goater with the club.

The Western Mail said it could "reveal that the 33-year-old Bermudan (sic) met City owner Sam Hammam and Lawrence for talks at Ninian Park on Monday afternoon."

Lawrence's response would appear to make such a suggestion groundless.

Cardiff have had a Bermudian in their ranks before - Kyle Lightbourne spent a loan period there after becoming surplus to requirements at Stoke City.