Hot American pop babe Katy Perry fancies Irish heart-throb Niall Horan – and she’s not afraid to admit it.

The California Girls hit maker is single again after her marriage to British actor Russell Brand ended after just 14 months.

The 27-year-old American singer has told the Irish Sun newspaper that One Direction star Horan is a ‘complete sweetheart.'

In the interview, she also admitted that she has been mentoring the mega-selling boy band as they conquer the world.

She also confessed to a soft-spot, the 18-year-old from Mullingar who is said to be dating Disney girl Demi Lovato.

Katy revealed: “Niall is just such a sweetheart. I’m a big fan of One Direction.

“They’ve been so sweet to me every time I meet them, they’re like the biggest thing in the world right now.

“I’m thrilled for the success they’re enjoying and love hanging out with them — Niall is just lovely.”

Perry also spoke openly of her love for Ireland during the interview as she promotes her new concert movie.

She added: “I must have played Dublin five times by now and I get such a welcome there every time.

“I have always had the most amazing time in Ireland, I need to spend more time there, that’s my plan.”