Ferne McCann is dating a sportsman.

Ferne McCann

Ferne McCann

The former 'The Only Way is Essex' star - who split from her boyfriend Charlie Sims last year following a six-year relationship - has admitted she's embarked on a steamy romance with a mystery athlete but is remaining tight-lipped on his identity for now while they pursue their chemistry.

She said: "I'm single but I'm definitely dating. I've been single for a year and in that time I haven't met anyone I like more than the rest of the blokes I've been dating. Until now, that is. It's very early days, but I do like him better than the rest I have dated. He's a sportsman but I'm not saying anything more."

And the 25-year-old beauty is convinced her new romance could progress into something more serious because her secret lover ticks all of her boxes and makes her feel special.

Speaking to OK! magazine, she said: "I do really like him. I like somebody who is charismatic, kind, generous and loyal.

"And they've got to be able to make me laugh ... I can tell if somebody is genuine. I have gone out with a few guys who have just been idiots or turned out to be idiots. I suppose that's all part of a learning curve, isn't it? I know it's a cliché but you have to kiss a few frogs before you meet your prince."