Strictly’s Ellie Leach and Vito fuel romance rumours as they get flirty practising passionate Argentine tango

STRICTLY'S Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola have fuelled romance rumours during rehearsals for the show.

The pair looked rather flirty while practising the passionate Argentine tango in a video posted to his Instagram Story.

In the teaser clip ahead of Saturday night's episode, Ellie describes the routine as "very intense" and "close".

Vito adds, "The space between us is like a ball of fire," before admitting he's been making sure his breath is fresh.

Romance rumours between Coronation Street star Ellie, 22, and the ballroom pro, 31, have gathered pace throughout the series.

Vito even swerved addressing rumours they're more than just friends when they appeared on Tuesday's episode of Lorraine.

Lorraine Kelly said: "Both of you are single, everybody wants a romance, you're getting on incredibly well - clearly there's a bond there..."

Vito replied: "Not just Ellie, all of Ellie's family have become like another family for me. I've been so lucky because they are so wonderful."

Turning to Ellie, he continued: "Your mum does the best gravy, I ate the entire pot!"

After turning back to Lorraine, the Strictly dancer added: "So of course, friends and people who will stay in your life forever."

The duo set tongues wagging weeks ago thanks to their chemistry on the dance floor and their cosy displays off camera too.

And last week Vito and Ellie were pictured arm in arm on the promenade in Blackpool ahead of the live show from the Northern seaside town.

Body language expert Darren Stanton later said on behalf of : "Ellie and Vito are clear favourites in the competition, and I think that’s down to them having a journey.

"They’ve had good weeks, and bad weeks, so for them to take feedback on board and really work as a team, is showing the public they have a real connection.

"Ellie has gone from strength to strength in terms of her confidence on the show.

"Her relationship with Vito is incredibly strong."