Broadcaster claims that she was in an 'open relationship' with her ex Gerard Pique for 3 years prior to their split.

Spanish broadcaster José Antonio Avilés has since insisted the former couple had been in mutually acceptable open relationship for three years before their separation.

'There is an agreement where "you do what you want and I do what I want", but in the face of the media we are still a couple,' Avilés said of their alleged agreement, according to El Nacional de Catalunya.

Claims of an open relationship are believed to have come from Piqué's close circle of friends and family, with many said to be stunned by his former partner's references to infidelity.

'The footballer's entourage was surprised by Shakira's statement,' Avilés added. 'He has been annoyed to find out from the press.'

Elsewhere fellow journalist Pilar Vidal added: 'Piqué does not want speculation that the reason for the breakup was infidelity.

'He was surprised by the statement, because the one who takes the initiative is her.'