TOWN are hoping Super Sammy's suitors get the hint after the club rejected two fresh bids for the striker.

Watford and Crewe Alexandra both tried and failed to persuade Town to part with their star man yesterday.

The Hornets came back with an improved, undisclosed offer, for Parkin, while the Railwaymen made a verbal bid for the 24-year-old.

With Town currently in negotiations with Parkin's agent over a new contract at the County Ground, director Sandy Gray hopes the rejections send out a strong message that the club is serious about hanging on to its star asset.

Only last week King said it would take an 'extreme' offer or one to make the hair on the back of the striker's neck stand up, to see Parkin heading out of the County Ground.

Gray said: "We have had two new offers for Sam but again they were unanimously rejected by the board.

"We've stated quite clearly that we want to keep Sam and actually extend his stay with us.

"Why would we want to let him go? How would we replace him?

"The Watford offer was an improved one but not acceptable."

Hornets boss Adrian Bevington is a big Parkin fan, while Gradi clearly sees the striker as a replacement for striker Dean Ashton.

Watford have money in the bank following Danny Cullip's £500,000 switch to Sheffield United while unsettled forward Heidar Helguson would also boost the transfer kitty if he moves on.

Gradi still has the best part of £3 million to burn following Ashton's move to Norwich City last season.

Speaking to his club's official website, Crewe boss Dario Gradi said: "I have asked about another striker in the lower leagues and been asked to be kept informed of developments.

"I know the manager doesn't want to sell him but may have to and although the wages may be a stumbling block, you never know."