Bleakley rep denies 'Xtra Factor' claims

[dutchman]

Rumours that Christine Bleakley is to be The Xtra Factor's new host have been dismissed by the star's spokeswoman.

Earlier this week, it was reported that Simon Cowell had offered Bleakley the job after growing close to her over the past year.

The music mogul is thought to be currently searching for the right presenter to take over on the ITV2 show as previous host Holly Willoughby is now too busy with her This Morning commitments.

However, Bleakley's spokesperson insisted that the 31-year-old will not be Willoughby's replacement as she is currently concentrating on The One Show.

Her representative told the Belfast Telegraph: "There have been no talks between Christine and ITV or ITV2 and no approaches have been made. Right now Christine is concentrating on The One Show and its shake-up."

She added that any new projects for Bleakley are likely to be with the BBC as the corporation is "keen to develop her as a key talent within the company".

Caroline Flack has also been linked to The Xtra Factor in recent days.