The Cairns Taipans have denied reports NBL star guard Scott Machado has inked a new two-year deal, saying the parties are still in negotiations.

The American is keen to return to the north Queensland team and has been locked in discussions with the Taipans.

Machado enjoyed an outstanding first season in the NBL in 2019-20 helping the club to the semi-finals.

The 29-year-old won the NBL Fans’ award for MVP and made the All-NBL First team, averaging 16.1 points, 7.8 assists and 3.6 rebounds per game.

Club officials are adamant Machado hasn’t been re-signed as yet, with the NBL still to confirm dates for next season.

“Despite a number of media reports, the Cairns Taipans are yet to formalise an agreement with former point guard Scott Machado at this stage,” the club said in a statement on Monday.

“While ongoing conversations with his agent have been positive and Machado has openly expressed his desire to return, there is no finalised contract given the unknown dates of the upcoming seasons.

“The Taipans are at various stages with a number of players in regards to the 2020-21 NBL season.”