Russian President Vladimir Putin has denied reports he is to marry a 24-year-old Olympic gymnast.

Global media and websites have reported that the 55-year-old leader, who steps down from the presidency next month, has secretly divorced his wife Lyudmila and plans to marry Alina Kabayeva.

During a visit to Italy, Mr Putin was asked by one journalist about the rumours. He said: "In what you said, there is not one word of truth."

Earlier this week Mr Putin was elected as head of his country's biggest party, United Russia.

The post gives him considerable influence over his protégé and successor as head of state, Dmitry Medvedev.

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