STRICTLY pro Giovanni Pernice will race back into the arms of girlfriend Maura Higgins following this weekend’s show and has told pals: “She’s the one.”
The Italian lothario has been left “love-struck” by the 30-year-old beauty.
Gio’s pals are expecting him to pop the question
And pals are now predicting he could soon pop the question to the Love Island star.
A source said: “Giovanni has never felt like this about anyone before.
“He has fallen for Maura incredibly quickly and right now she comes before everything else in his life.
“He is still putting the hours in on Strictly but once that’s done he is happiest spending as much time as possible with Maura.
“None of his mates have seen him like this before and Maura, who is always in and around set, has become really close to Giovanni’s friends as well.
“Nobody would be surprised if they end up getting married because Giovanni has been saying she is the one he wants to be with forever.”
Earlier today Maura shared a romantic note from her Strictly Come Dancing boyfriend Giovanni Pernice ahead of tonight’s show.
The Love Island star was moved by the heartfelt message as Giovanni, 31, went to prepare for his dance with EastEnders’ Rose Ayling-Ellis, 26.
“I love you so much. Ti ado di piu [I adore you more]!!
Maura has been fully supportive of Gio and Rose, wishing them luck ahead of the first dance of the series last week.
Alongside a photograph of the pair, she said: “The very best of luck to you both tonight. I know you will absolutely smash it.”
The actress is the first deaf contestant to take part in the competition, giving Giovanni the challenge of teaching in a new way.
The energetic routine drew praise from viewers, who were amazed by Rose’s ability to “feel” the music using the vibrations from the live band.
Tonight they will do a salsa to Cuba by The Gibson Brothers.
