BOSTON -- House Speaker Sal DiMasi will step down sometime next week, NewsCenter 5's Janet Wu has learned.

Earlier Friday, DiMasi's office released a statement denying reports that he was making plans to depart from his newly elected position as speaker, perhaps as early as next week.

"The speaker is focused on the important work before the House and won't be distracted by the latest round of Statehouse rumors and gossip," said David Guarino, DiMasi's communications director.

But a source close to the speaker confirmed to NewsCenter 5 reports that his departure was imminent.

Speculation has been rampant at the Statehouse since state and federal investigations surrounding DiMasi and his close friends and associates were reported. DiMasi's campaign treasurer and close friend, Richard Vitale, was indicted on charges of illegal lobbying practices.

DiMasi was overwhelmingly re-elected as speaker earlier this month.

Sources close to House Ways and Means Chairman Rep. Robert DeLeo and Rep. John Rogers said they are confident they both have enough votes to become the next speaker if DiMasi steps down.