An all-British heavyweight clash between Tony Bellew and Tyson Fury has been widely discussed ever since former WBC cruiserweight champion Bellew stepped up a division to defeat David Haye by stoppage last March. 

There has also been no shortage of words between the pair in recent times.

However, when speaking to Sky Sports, Bellew (29-2-1, 19 KOs) revealed that there had been no animosity between the two when they saw each other at Manchester Arena during last weekend's George Groves vs Chris Eubank Jr super middleweight bout.

Not only that, according to 'The Bomber', they actually embraced after bumping into each other.

"I did see him yeah," confirmed Bellew. "He got me in a bit of a choke hold and hugged me. 

"I know he's saying he doesn't like me and that he wants to beat me up, but listen we get on fine.

"Tyson Fury is a good fellow. I've got a lot of time for Tyson Fury."

Despite his words, the Liverpudlian - who has previously blasted Fury for his lack of speed and athleticism - would still be keen to meet the former undisputed heavyweight champion in the ring.

In fact, he even has a venue in mind.

"Me and Fury? Old Trafford sounds nice, doesn't it, Old Trafford on a summer's night," Bellew added, indicating that he would like the potential fight to take place at the iconic home of Manchester United.

A showdown between Bellew and Fury may still be some way off, however. Fury (25-0, 18 KOs) has not fought since he dethroned Wladimir Klitschko for the undisputed heavyweight crown in November 2015 because of a drugs ban and would undoubtedly require at least one comeback fight before any meeting with Bellew.

A meeting with former pound-for-pound number one Andre Ward (32-0, 16 KOs) may prove a far more immediate option should the Oakland-native decide to come out of retirement as many expect. 

Bellew continued: "Right at this moment in time, it's a more realistic option, that's what I will say.

"Is it a more serious option? I think both are very serious options, but I do rate Andre Ward."

A fight with Ward would likely see the 35-year-old return to the cruiserweight division according to the man himself.

"I know what his walking around weight is at the moment. He's heavy, but he's in fighting shape. He's not heavy enough to be a heavyweight right now. A cruiserweight fight, yes," he added.

A Bellew vs Fury bout would certainly be the more lucrative of the two, but both fights have great appeal.

Before any plans can be finalised, however, Bellew must first come through his May rematch with David Haye at London's O2 Arena.

And performance against Haye will no doubt be a huge factor in deciding where his fighting future lies.