Showbiz
Rex Features
According to The Sun, Houghton was spotted with the 'Beat Again' singer at the Brit Awards and their Hammersmith Apollo gig last month.
Houghton, who is the current Miss Intercontinental Liverpool, previously dated Manchester United striker Federico Macheda. She is also apparently hoping to launch a TV career.
"They seem really into one another and things are moving quickly," said a source. "Aston has been on cloud nine since meeting her.
"They are telling friends that they're together but they are both characters who rush into things. With their schedules taking them all over, seeing each other is going to be tough."
Merrygold has previously dated student Natalia Rush and ex-EastEnders actress Louisa Lytton. His bandmate Marvin Humes is reportedly romancing Saturdays star Rochelle Wiseman.
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