The Scottish international was touted as target for A-League newcomers NQ Fury after falling out with both club and country.

But former teammate Ferguson has denied the rumours due to the wages the 31-year-old would demand.

"We couldn't afford Barry Ferguson, I suspect," Ian Ferguson told Glasgow's Evening Times. "We have a $2m salary cap and I already have a marquee signing this year in Robbie Fowler."

Other A-League clubs have also been linked with Ferguson, who has been capped 45 times by his country, but the Fury coach played down their chances saying the salary cap would likely prevent such a move.

"I would doubt that anyone in this neck of the woods would be in a financial position to sign Barry," he added.

"It's all down to whether he wants a lifestyle change or not. If money is not his driving force, then there are certainly teams who would want him and we would maybe even be one of them.

"If you are prepared to change, then this is the place."

A possible move to Russian club Zenit St Petersburg has also been ruled out by Zenit manager and former Rangers boss Dick Advocaat.