[Scarlett.]

We can reveal that the pub’s current owner Stella Price decides to sell up because it holds too many negative memories for her in the wake of the fire and Sunita Alahan’s death.

But when a mystery buyer puts in an offer she has no idea it’s Steve McDonald.

Steve (played by Simon Gregson) decides to buy the boozer because he wants it back in his family.

He keeps it a secret from his girlfriend Michelle Connor but the move paves the way for Liz – who returns this autumn – to take her place behind the bar.

Corrie fans will know Liz (Beverley Callard, 56) was landlady of the Rovers bet*ween 2006 and 2011. A show insider said: “The McDonalds have always had a soft spot for the Rovers.

“Steve would never have got rid of it if it wasn’t for his financial problems when he was wed to Becky.

“So now that he can afford it again, he can’t wait to get back in there.”

“He keeps it a secret from his girlfriend Michelle Connor but the move paves the way for Liz”

In scenes to be screened late next month Stella (Michelle Collins, 54) breaks the news to her family.

She tells Eva and Gloria: “I’ve got someone who’s offered the asking price, it’s a mystery buyer.

“£160,000 is a fair price, it’s a lot of money.

“We’re going to have to start packing today, we move out on Friday.”

A Corrie spokeswoman said: “We don’t comment on upcoming storylines.”

Daily Star