Barrett has a get-out clause in his St George Illawarra contract

Last month, Barrett's agent said Wigan had expressed an interest in his client, but the Warriors say their name is being used as a bargaining tactic.

"Not for the first time our name is being used when a top player possibly comes on the market," said Wigan chairman Maurice Lindsay.

"We're sick of reading we've made huge offers for players around the world."

The 28-year-old Barrett has three years left on his St George Illawarra Dragons contract, but has a get-out clause that would allow him to play in England in 2007.

Barrett's agent Wayne Beavis said that Wigan had made informal enquiries, but had not made a formal offer.

Reports in Australian newspapers suggested Barrett was mulling over a three-year deal worth �200,00 per annum.

"The sums involved are absolutely ludicrous and bear no relation whatsoever to reality or common sense, particularly with the salary cap structure in the UK," added Lindsay.

"When we recruit we recruit sensibly. This year we have signed to replace injured or retired players.

"We review our situation annually and will no doubt assess our situation as the season goes along.

It is sheer nonsense to connect us with every player that becomes available Wigan chairman Maurice Lindsay

"In the Trent Barrett case however, the Wigan name is once again linked as it always is whenever a top player comes on the market.

"If anyone examines our overseas quota they would quickly realise that it is sheer nonsense to connect us with every player that becomes available."

Barrett played under Wigan coach Ian Millward and assistant coach Andrew Farrar when all three were at the Dragons.

The rumours linking Barrett with Wigan were boosted last month by an enigmatic quote from Lindsay.

Speaking of a recent visit to Australia, Lindsay told the Wigan Evening Post: "Fans can start to get excited now if they wish.

"My trip wasn't just a holiday, I've been working over there as well and there'll be something very interesting to report further down the line."

Barrett was spotted speaking with Wigan head coach Ian Millward during the Tri-Nations, where he was part of the Australian team beaten by New Zealand.

Dragons chief executive Peter Doust has demanded that Barrett resolves his future by the end of February.