Westlife star Shane Filan will release his debut solo album later this year.

The Irish singer has penned a deal with Universal's London Records and work is already under way on his first album, which is expected to hit shelves at the end of the year.

Filan is recording the record in Nashville - as well as the UK - and speaking in a statement, he expressed his excitement at having control over his output. The singer said:

"I am so excited to be joining London Records, Universal Music and being back in the studio in London and Nashville recording new songs has been amazing. One of the things that pleases me the most about this record is that I've been given the opportunity to write my own songs. I'm so excited for people to hear them!"

Manager Louis Walsh meanwhile added: "This is a fantastic new deal for Shane, we are thrilled to be part of the team at London Records."

The news marks a turnaround in fortunes for the singer, who was declared bankrupt last year with debts of £18m after losing money in property.