Sheffield United have made an approach for permission to hold talks with Motherwell manager Stuart McCall.
The League One club are searching for a new boss following the departure of Danny Wilson in April.
McCall, who led Motherwell to a second-placed finish in the Scottish Premier League and a Scottish Cup final this season, has previously played down speculation linking him with the vacancy at Bramall Lane.
Speaking after his side's 2-0 defeat at St Johnstone on Sunday, McCall told BBC Sport: "It's a story that's not worth speaking about because it's all speculation. I've never as a player, coach or manager sought to go elsewhere.
"I've always been happy here and if anything at all ever comes up and is put to me that is the time we'll talk about it, but at this moment in time it's been pure speculation.
"I think when you've had a decent season, or a couple of decent seasons which I've been fortunate to have, then speculation will grow. As far as I'm concerned, my full focus is on here all the time."
McCall played for Sheffield United between 2002 and 2005.
Steven Toplis
