Doncaster Rovers manager Paul Dickov has confirmed that the club are in talks to sign Shay Given and Billy Sharp.
Dickov has contacted Aston Villa and Southampton regarding potential loan deals for the respective players and is now waiting to hear back from both clubs.
However, the 40-year-old has denied that the Championship newcomers are eyeing a similar move for Villa's Stephen Ireland.
"Shay is somebody I know. We did make an enquiry a couple of weeks ago to take Shay on loan and we are waiting to hear back," Dickov told BBC Radio Sheffield.
"Billy is somebody who is highly thought of at the club. Again, a loan enquiry did go in a couple of weeks ago and we are waiting to hear back.
"Stephen has not been mentioned. I think people are putting two and two together with Shay and possibly with Stephen being a friend of mine, but there has been no approach made for Stephen."
Given has fallen behind Brad Guzan in the pecking order at Villa, while Sharp scored 41 goals in 86 appearances for Doncaster before his move to the Saints.