Designer Gareth Pugh denies he's heading to Alexander McQueen. Photo: Francois Durand, Getty Images

The hunt for Alexander McQueen's replacement is on, but we can count one possible contender out.

Envelope-pushing designer Gareth Pugh has issued a statement denying rumors that he has been in talks with the Gucci Group to head the McQueen label following its namesake designer's tragic suicide last month, Vogue UK reports.

"Further to speculative reports, Gareth Pugh is not in discussions with Gucci Group about a creative director role at Alexander McQueen," Pugh's PR told the source this morning.

Back to the drawing board, people.

Too bad. The British-born, Paris-based Pugh could have been a fitting choice to follow in McQueen's formidable footsteps. Like McQueen, he's created flamboyant costumes for Lady Gaga (as well as Beyoncé), and is known for his provocative, forward-thinking runway shows.

So who will be taking over the reins? Your guess is as good as ours!

Meanwhile, check out the wild Pugh-designed headpiece Kirsten Dunst wears in this month's V magazine.