Coronation Street executive producer Iain MacLeod has revealed that Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce) will embark on a potentially unwise "dalliance" with another character in the near future.

The Weatherfield staple was previously known for his philandering ways but has mellowed in recent years and has been single since his split from Billy (Daniel Brocklebank) more than two years ago.

"There's a dalliance, shall we say, but it arrives at a quite poor time, and the person with whom he has the connection is probably not ideal in terms of the situation that Todd meets them in," MacLeod told The Sun.

"But yeah, it's at this time, only a little test drive of his relationship with this person. It's not very long-running, but we thought if we like what we see, it might come on to be long-running later on."

In recent months Todd has struck up somewhat of an unlikely friendship with Billy's husband - and former frenemy - Paul, who is battling terminal Motor Neurone Disease.

"Historically, Todd is incredibly selfish, but I've loved seeing a slightly more compassionate, selfless side to him in the Paul story," MacLeod continued. "I suppose the other thing to say about Todd is love his dynamic with George (Tony Maudsley). I just think that double act is absolutely fantastic.

"So I think Todd's got so many ingredients in his life at the moment that a long-running love story might get in the way slightly. So yes, there's a short-term little fling with some unfortunate consequences for a few of the people involved.

"And then longer-term, we'll see, I suppose. I love Todd, but I think he's got a lot on his plate already and so maybe any longer-term romance will come later next year."

The identity of Todd's love interest has yet to be revealed, although existing Corrie characters known to be gay or bisexual include Paul, Billy and Sean (Antony Cotton).

Coronation Street continues Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.