Watford have rejected an approach from Cardiff for permission to speak to Malky Mackay.
Bluebirds wanted Scotsman after Shearer talks fall through
Watford have rejected an approach from Cardiff for permission to speak to Malky Mackay.
The Bluebirds are on the hunt for a new boss after parting ways with Dave Jones late last month following their failure to achieve promotion through the Championship play-offs.
Former Newcastle ace Alan Shearer had been tipped as favourite for the role after holding talks with the Welsh club, but revealed negotiations were 'unsuccessful'.
However, Cardiff have now set their sights on Hornets boss Mackay, who has been at the helm of Watford since 2009.
Power
But Watford have rejected Cardiff's approach with Hornets owner Laurence Bassini insisting they want to keep the Scot at Vicarage Road.
"We don't want Malky to leave Watford and we will do everything in our power to keep him at Vicarage Road," Bassini told the club's
official website.
Former Scotland centre-back Mackay led the Hornets to a 14th-placed Championship finish last season after helping them avoid relegation the year before.
While the Scot is thought to now be the leading candidate for the Bluebirds role, former Newcastle boss Chris Hughton and ex-West Brom tactician Roberto Di Matteo are also reportedly in the frame.
