Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and Liam Payne are reportedly trying for a baby.

An insider explained: "It's very serious now between Cheryl and Liam and they have been talking among close friends about starting a family.

"Cheryl is happier than she's been since the good days of her marriage to Ashley Cole."

Although the source admitted that the duo are still in the early stages of their high-profile romance, the 32-year-old singer and Liam, 22, both see it as a long-term commitment.

The source told The Sun on Sunday newspaper: "She's content and while they're in the honeymoon period, this feels like a connection for the future."

Earlier this month, Cheryl's showbiz pal Tinchy Stryder - who became good friends with the singer when he supported her on tour in 2012 - said he hopes the pair find happiness together.

He said: "If that's what makes her happy then good for her, good for him.

"It's just good for them, man. If she's happy and looking well, there's nothing wrong with that. Hopefully she stays happy."

The rap star also praised the brunette beauty for being "bubbly and laid back".

He said: "She's really cool. What you see is what you get in a way. She's bubbly and laid back, she's cool.

"It was interesting because when I went on-stage the crowd were responding and enjoying it and it was fun.

"And she comes out and it was OK, you see different styles of music and different crowds and a Cheryl audience isn't I guess my core or my usual fans."