Leona Lewis to buy barn

Leona Lewis is set to buy a £1 million country home.

The 'Bleeding Love' singer - who has been living in Los Angeles while she records her new album - is in negotiations to purchase a converted barn in a village in Hertfordshire, east England.

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A source told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "Leona can't wait to return to the UK full-time and is keen to buy herself a nice country home rather than purchase anywhere in town.

"She's spotted a converted barn, which she loves. It would be ideal as it's still close enough for her to commute into London for work and to see her family, yet it's private enough for her to have some time to herself.

"She wants to be able to enjoy some time away from the spotlight and do normal things like go to the shops for a pint of milk."

The 24-year-old singer bought a £120,000 flat in Hackney, east London, with her boyfriend Lou Al-Chamaa last year, but hasn't been able to spend any time there in the past few months.

She was reportedly considering moving to the US for good, but changed her mind when homesickness kicked in.

Leona explained: "I've missed 'EastEnders', my family and being able to walk to the shops."

'The X Factor' winner also hinted she is planning to settle down with Lou, despite rumours they are on the verge of splitting.

She said: "Yes, marriage could be on the cards soon, we'll have to wait and see."

Leona's second album is due for release in November.