Leona Lewis has lots in common with Liam Payne.

The singer is reportedly dating the One Direction hitmaker - who is eight years her junior - and says they share similar interests despite their age gap and she is flattered by his constant compliments about her looks.

"You'd be surprised how much we have in common. He's great. We see each other when we can. It's very flattering to get compliments like that. It's cute... I'm not saying [if we're together]. I'm having fun and enjoying myself. If you have a bond with someone it doesn't come into it. I'd date someone younger or older, ages doesn't matter to me. Or looks, really - it's all about maturity," Leona, 27, said.

Former X Factor winner Leona - who recently split from dancer Dennis Jauch - admits she can be hot-headed and wants someone who can take the lead, but also said good dance moves are also high on her list of must-haves in a relationship. "I like someone who can take the reins, who knows what they want and is strong with me. I'm quite fiery, so they have to be able to handle that. But I do like to feel protected. Also, being artistic and spiritual. That's what's important to me. And I'd never trust a man who can't dance!" she said.

The star has shunned famous boyfriends in the past, but didn't rule out the possibility of striking up a romance with a fellow celebrity: "It can be [easier to have a famous boyfriend], but it can also make it harder because they're as busy as you are. I like relationships to start with friendship. I've had times where I've just been instantly attracted and gone straight into a relationship, and it's never worked."