Berlusconi favours businesswoman Daniela Santanche to take over in Italy

London, May 14 (ANI): Silvio Berlusconi, the scandal-hit former Italian Prime Minister, is said to be lining up one of his "babes" to be the country's next leader.

The 75-year-old Italian politician, who quit last year after being charged over his sleazy bunga bunga parties, is believed to favour glamorous businesswoman Daniela Santanche for his old position.

The 51-year-old brunette, who is part of a group known as Silvio's Babes, has emerged as a front-runner to be the next leader of his centre-right People of Freedom Party, the Sun reported.

The political siren has been dubbed Italy's Sarah Palin for her good looks and thunderous attacks on opponents.

She served as an under-secretary in Berlusconi's last cabinet. (ANI)