X Factor’s Rebecca Ferguson, 24, ‘dating One Direction teenager Zain Malik’

The 24-year-old mother-of-two is said to have grown close to Zain, 18, during the X Factor tour.

However, bosses are apparently keen to keep the new relationship a secret for now, for fear that it could harm one or both of their careers.

A source told the News of the World: ‘This relationship could damage Rebecca’s career. She is seen as the devoted mother who doesn’t have time for a relationship, especially with a teenager.

‘And One Direction’s female fans will hate the thought of having a relationship with someone older.’

While neither Rebecca or Zain have confirmed the relationship, Rebecca posted a slightly cryptic message on her Twitter page this evening.

She tweeted: ‘#quoteoftheday happiness Is the outcome of accepting yourself not seeking approval of other people but loving who you are #liveforyou xxx’

It’s not the first time Zain has fallen for a fellow X Factor contestant.