Gemma Atkinson has been "getting close" to Ryan Giggs.

Gemma Atkinson

Gemma Atkinson

The 32-year-old actress has sparked rumours she may be dating the dark-haired hunk after she was spotted cosying up to the 43-year-old former England footballer at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards, which took place at Birmingham's Genting Arena on Monday (19.12.16), and wouldn't "leave his side" at the star-studded bash.

Speaking about the pair's recent friendly encounter, a source told the Mirror Online: "Ryan and Gemma was seen getting close, she didn't leave his side."

However, it is believed the two simply share a strong friendship as Ryan - who ended his nine-year marriage to Stacey Cooke earlier this confessing to having two affairs - has known the former 'Hollyoaks' star for 10 years and are "very comfortable" in each other's company.

The source explained: "They've known each other for 10 years so they're very comfortable in each other's company."

And the news the buxom beauty and Ryan were getting close at the event may come as a surprise for some as she has recently split from her boyfriend Olly Foster and has admitted dating again hasn't even crossed her mind since her relationship ended because she doesn't "need" a man in her life.

Speaking previously, she said: "Sometimes there are people in your life and it's just not working out the way you thought. We'll always be in each other's life but just as friends.

"We went on a road trip the other week together. Now I can't get away with ditching sessions as he's quite strict with me. I'm happily single. I've got the dogs and lots going on professionally. It's nice to be on my own for a bit.

"I have not even thought about dating. I will give it a few months. I'm one of those people who like their own company. I don't need anyone."