US X Factor judge Demi Lovato denies she's dating One Direction's Niall Horan

Demi Lovato doesn't want to start a new relationship

US X Factor judge Demi Lovato has denied that she's hooking up with One Direction star Niall Horan.

Demi's claim comes days after it was reported that the pair - who've been getting flirty on Twitter and Skype over the past six months - were 'loosely dating'.

'He's a really awesome, sweet guy,' Demi, 20, tells Teen Vogue.

'But he's not my boyfriend. I'm in a place right now where I really need to focus on myself.'

Even though they're not an item, Niall speaks very highly of the former Disney star.

'The nice thing about Demi is, once you know her, she's really, really beautiful,' Niall, 19, tells Seventeen.

'If I ever needed anything or needed to talk to anybody, I think Demi would be the best person to talk to.'

SEE PICTURES Niall Horan flashes braces on night out in London

SEE PICTURES Niall Horan and One Direction sign copies of album Up All Night in New York

SEE PICTURES Niall Horan with One Direction and red carpet guests at the Brits 2012

Aimee Latimer