Manchester City have confirmed they have had a new bid for Blackburn Rovers striker Roque Santa Cruz rejected.

Affluent City have made no secret of their interest in Santa Cruz, and have already failed with a number of offers during the winter transfer window.

Manager Hughes is keen to reunite with the Paraguayan at Eastlands, as he looks to build a team capable of challenging for a top-four finish.

Earlier on Friday, Santa Cruz reiterated his desire to link-up with Hughes at the City of Manchester Stadium.

However, Rovers boss Sam Allardyce is determined to keep hold of his star forward, and the club have turned down an increased bid.

“Yesterday afternoon we put an improved bid to Blackburn for Roque Santa Cruz but it was rejected,” said Hughes.

City, though, do look more likely to land goalkeeper Shay Given as the club await a reply from Newcastle United over a recent approach.

“We have put in a bid for Shay but we are still waiting for an update,” Hughes added.