Chace as the new face of Versace

CHACE Crawford has reportedly been lined up to be the new face of Versace.

The Gossip Girl star - who plays Nate Archibald in the hit US TV show - is said to be close to signing a deal to replace Grey's Anatomy actor Patrick Dempsey as the face of the prestigious Italian fashion label.

Versace released a statement pointing out the 23-year-old actor has worn clothes from the company to three big events recently - Fashion Rocks, the MTV Video Music Awards and his Gossip Girl co-star Blake Lively's 21st birthday party.

When the label were approached about the rumours of signing Chace, a spokesperson said: "We have been working hard to develop our relationship with Chace - and that is all we can say on the subject.

"Patrick Dempsey is contracted with us through to Spring/Summer 2009. It is undetermined who will replace him at this time."