Coronation Street viewers are speculating about a surprising new love interest for Roy Cropper on the famous cobbles.

Roy, portrayed by David Neilson, first appeared on the soap in 1995 as Deirdre Barlow’s (Anne Kirkbride) neighbour in a block of flats. He quickly became a favourite among the show’s dedicated viewers.

Throughout his 29-year tenure on the enduring soap, the café owner has been central to numerous significant storylines, including his recent unexpected prison plot.

Most memorably, he had a legendary marriage to his wife Hayley (Julie Hesmondhalgh). The couple got together in the late nineties and became one of television’s most cherished and long-lasting pairs.

Roy and Hayley remained together until Hayley’s devastating death in 2014. Fans will remember her diagnosis with terminal pancreatic cancer and, in a heart-wrenching turn of events, Hayley died with her husband Roy at her side after consuming a fatal mix of drugs, reports Leicestershire Live.

However, over a decade since her passing, Roy might be ready to move on with an unforeseen new resident of the cobbles – and it’s a character fans are familiar with and fond of.

Earlier this year, it was revealed that Eileen Grimshaw (Sue Cleaver) is departing the cobbles after 25 years. As part of her exit storyline, Eileen’s sister Julie Carp (Katy Cavanagh) has returned – nine years after she was last seen on the soap.

In a devastating development, it has been disclosed that Julie is fighting cancer and is tragically facing her final days. Determined to make the most of her remaining time, Julie and her loved ones have initiated a fundraiser to help her achieve her bucket list dreams.

During Monday’s episode (April 21), Julie, despite her illness, resolved to use the raised funds for a trip to the Lake District. Her day took an unexpected turn when Brian Packham (played by Peter Gunn) invited her for a meal at the cafe, sparking a connection between them.

However, their budding moment was cut short as Brian had to dash off due to an urgent situation at The Kabin. The emotional weight of her situation became too much for Julie, who broke down in tears during a conversation with Roy about her anguish and struggle with cancer.

In a touching exchange, Roy shared his own experiences with Hayley’s previous battle with the disease. But now, viewers are speculating that Julie’s romantic future may not lie with Brian after all. Instead, they foresee a surprising twist in the tale with a potential romance blossoming between Julie and Roy.

Fans on a Coronation Street Facebook fan page have been expressing their thoughts, with one person commenting: “Julie and Roy? I ship them.” Another fan concurred: “100%” while a third added: “He deserves to find love again!”