In a move that’s got the nation buzzing louder than a Viennese Waltz spin, fan-favourite Rylan Clark has emerged as the hot frontrunner to step into the glittering shoes of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly Come Dancing.

The BBC is reportedly “desperate” to inject fresh energy into the beloved Saturday night staple after the iconic duo’s emotional farewell last month, and insiders say the cheeky Essex charmer – real name Ross Richard Clark – is now their “top choice” to lead the charge for the 2026 series.

But here’s the real jaw-dropper: Rylan won’t be flying solo. Sources whisper that his surprise co-host could be none other than his close pal and recent BBC travel buddy Rob Rinder – the barrister-turned-TV-star whose on-screen chemistry with Rylan in their hit series Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour left viewers swooning.

“Everyone’s talking about Rylan and Rob as the dream duo,” a TV insider dished to Daily Mail. “They’ve got that perfect mix – Rylan’s sparkle and humour, Rob’s wit and warmth. Bosses think they’d bring something completely new while keeping the heart of Strictly alive.”

The speculation exploded after comedy king Alan Carr – previously tipped as the BBC’s favourite – dramatically pulled out due to unbreakable tour commitments for 2027.

“The Beeb are gutted about Alan,” our source revealed. “He was their golden boy after smashing Celebrity Traitors, but the dates just clashed. Now all eyes are on Rylan – he’s Strictly royalty already, and pairing him with someone unexpected like Rob would be genius.”

Rylan, 37, is no stranger to the ballroom. The X Factor legend hosted spin-off It Takes Two from 2019 to 2022, charming viewers with his infectious enthusiasm, sequin obsession and genuine love for the show.

He’s stayed tight with the Strictly family ever since – popping up for guest spots and even duetting with Rick Astley on New Year’s Eve specials.

Fans have long begged for his return, and now it seems their wishes could come true on the main stage.

“Strictly without Tess and Claud feels impossible,” one devoted viewer posted on social media. “But if anyone’s going to make it fun again, it’s Rylan!”

The idea of teaming him with Rob Rinder, 47, has sent excitement levels through the roof.

The pair’s 2024 BBC Two series saw them traipse through Italy, baring their souls about heartbreak while admiring art – and their banter was pure gold.

Head judge Shirley Ballas has already publicly backed the pairing, telling reporters: “I think Rylan could be a good candidate. I think Judge Rinder would be wicked in the Clauditorium.”

Other big names like Zoe Ball (whose dad Johnny hinted she’s “in the mix”), Holly Willoughby, Bradley Walsh and Alison Hammond are still floating around the rumour mill.

But with chemistry tests reportedly happening in the New Year, Rylan has rocketed to the top of the bookies’ lists.

Tess and Claudia’s departure after 21 glorious years left a glitter-shaped hole in Saturday nights.

Their tear-jerking final dance on the Christmas Day special had the nation sobbing – but now the focus is firmly on the future.

BBC bosses are said to be keen on a “reset” after recent controversies, with some even suggesting a fallow year in 2026 to let the dust settle.

But insiders insist the show must go on – and with Rylan potentially at the helm, it could sparkle brighter than ever.

From X Factor tears to Eurovision commentary, Radio 2 gigs and that unforgettable Rob travelogue, Rylan’s career has been a rollercoaster of reinvention.

And if he lands Strictly? It would be the ultimate full-circle moment.

As one fan put it: “Rylan on the main show? Take my money, BBC!”

Watch this space – the ballroom’s about to get a whole lot more fabulous.