PAUL STURROCK is hoping that persistent speculation over the futures of James Beattie and Antti Niemi will end soon.

The Saints boss has again confirmed that he has not had a single inquiry for Beattie during the summer - and that includes Newcastle.

Rumours have refused to die down that the Saints striker could be off to the north-east, even though chairmen Rupert Lowe and Freddie Shepherd and the player's agent, Jon Smith, have denied all knowledge.

Sturrock said: "There's been speculation all summer.

"I thought this had been put to bed weeks ago but I take it the media didn't have much to fill their papers with over the last couple of days so it's reared it's ugly head again.

"I'm glad Beatts' people have come out with the comment we've been making all along and thankfully now it's not a story any longer - it shouldn't hit the press any longer."

Newcastle, who signed Leeds teenager James Milner last week, are now believed to be targeting Dutch international Patrick Kluivert.

Sturrock is also optimistic that Niemi will sign an extension to his contract after protracted wrangling over his pay increase.

The Saints boss said: "His last two years have been excellent and hopefully things are going to be sorted out."

Rangers, also linked with Beattie in recent months, are expected to complete the £450,000 signing of Dundee striker Nacho Novo today.

Novo, who was reporting to be interesting Sturrock back in may, had looked certain to join Old Firm rivals Celtic after the Scottish champions tabled a £500,000 offer last week.