[Loukas]

The hunk, 39, has been in secret talks for the new series after dropping a huge hint that he was keen to give it a go.

Blond-haired Robbie is also pals with show hosts Ant, 38, and Dec, 39, who are eager to see him face their nasty Bushtucker Trials.

A source said: “He is the ideal candidate for the jungle.

“He wants to be a Tarzan but, as everyone knows, he is probably more like a Jane because he spends so much time on his hair.

“He will certainly be a memorable campmate.”

Former football bad boy Robbie has got a taste for TV since retiring from the game in 2011.

The former Derby captain took part in Strictly Come Dancing three years ago and came in sixth place.

And he has appeared on The Chase, Family Fortunes and Tricked.

Asked if he would ever do I’m A Celebrity, he once said: “I always thought I’d never do a reality show but I’ve realised I’m someone who needs a challenge.

“If I’m A Celebrity came up I would consider it because I’m mates with Ant and Dec.”

Robbie is also a big fan of the show. During last year’s ITV series featuring Westlife’s Kian Egan, 34, and Towie’s Joey Essex, 24, he tweeted: “This jungle lark is so easy.” Last night a pal said: “ITV want him. And he wants to do it.

“He is trying to clear his diary at BT Sport where he is a pundit and he’d have to take time out during the season.”

Other names in the November show include ex-model and TV star Melanie Sykes, 44, and Towie’s Gemma Collins, 33.

The Daily Star