Omer Bhatti has denied that he is Michael Jackson's son despite constant media speculation.

The 25-year-old Norwegian has been at the centre of intense rumours that he is the secret love-child of the King of Pop, talk which was fuelled further when Omer sat next to the Jackson family at Michael's memorial service.

Speaking to a friend, as quoted by the Daily Mirror, Omer has now insisted he has no biological connection to Michael Jackson.

He said: “Michael is not my father. He and I were just very, very close. He was my best friend.”

The paper quotes further: “Michael always used to say I was like a son to him.

“But my true parents are here in Norway. The reason I was asked to sit with his family at the memorial service is because I was Michael’s closest friend – not because I am his son.”

Reports last week claimed that Omer was born following a one-night stand in Oslo in 1984.

Jermaine Jackson was also quoted as saying that Omer would be welcomed into the family if it was proved that he was Michael's son.

(by Scott Colothan)