SHEFFIELD UNITED chairman Kevin McCabe is confident prize asset James Beattie will still be at the club next season.
Beattie has had a superb first season at Bramall Lane following his move from Everton last summer, scoring 22 goals in the Coca-Cola Championship.
He has been linked with a return to the Premier League and Bolton, Portsmouth and Aston Villa are al
l reportedly interested in the striker.
However, McCabe has warned the top-flight clubs that it will be extremely difficult to prise Beattie away from his long-term deal.
The 30-year-old recently stated that he was happy with the Blades and McCabe is desperate for him to stay.
He said: "We don't want to lose James and nor do we expect him to leave.
"He's as happy as Larry here and it's great to have him.
"Anyone who has spoken to James or has seen him play will tell you that.
"James is subject to a long-term contract and that says everything.
"I accept that what happens in football is not always down to the clubs any more, but we love having him, he has done exceptionally well and we will fight to keep him."
McCabe has also confirmed ex-England boss Graham Taylor is unlikely to be joining the Blades as a director of football, following rumours.
Meanwhile, boss Kevin Blackwell is reportedly eyeing a raid on former club Luton as he bids to shape up his squad in the close season.
Blackwell's former club are willing to listen to offers for their entire squad following relegation to League Two.
Star turn is highly-rated 22-year-old keeper Dean Brill, ironically recommended to United by former Hatters boss Blackwell in the January transfer window.
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