Alan Pardew has resigned as manager of Reading.
The 42-year-old said that he had decided to leave the Division One club because he had been denied the chance to speak to West Ham.
But Reading have replied by rejecting his resignation.
"I wish to announce my resignation from Reading Football Club with immediate effect," said Pardew.
"My main issue has always been the opportunity to speak to West Ham United Football Club which has been denied to me."
Pardew is top of West Ham's list as they search for a full-time replacement for Glenn Roeder, who was sacked in August.
Hammers legend Trevor Brooking is acting as caretaker manager at Upton Park, but he has indicated that he does not want to be considered for the full-time job.
The 42-year-old said that he had decided to leave the Division One club because he had been denied the chance to speak to West Ham.
But Reading have replied by rejecting his resignation.
"I wish to announce my resignation from Reading Football Club with immediate effect," said Pardew.
"My main issue has always been the opportunity to speak to West Ham United Football Club which has been denied to me."
Pardew is top of West Ham's list as they search for a full-time replacement for Glenn Roeder, who was sacked in August.
Hammers legend Trevor Brooking is acting as caretaker manager at Upton Park, but he has indicated that he does not want to be considered for the full-time job.