Giovanni Pernice could reportedly be paired up with a male celebrity on this year's Strictly Come Dancing.
Same-sex partnerships were finally introduced to the show in 2020 - and last year, TV chef John Whaite formed a popular pairing with pro Johannes Radebe.
Radio 2's Richie Anderson has already been announced as being part of the lineup, alongside a confirmation that he will get a male pro partner, and The Sun says that reigning champ Pernice is favourite to dance with him.
"Giovanni is really keen for the challenge and wants to show fans he can dance just as well with a man as with a woman," a source told the newspaper.
"He is extremely competitive and already has lots of ideas for the choreography."
Pernice, 31, has previously spoken about his desire to have a male partner, saying: "I am more than ready to be partnered with a man.
"It would give me a chance to challenge myself with new routines, you have to think more about it. I love challenging myself."
The new series begins on BBC One next month.
Neil Wilkes
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