Selena Gomez "loves" Justin Bieber.

The 18-year-old star - who has previously been pictured holding hands with the 'Baby' hitmaker - has revealed she has deep feelings for Justin but confesses she doesn't understand the level of interest in their relationship.

She told Access Hollywood: "I love him. He's been in my life a very long time. He's my friend.

"I think it's awesome people are interested - I don't understand why."

She also confessed she would not be spending time with Justin on Valentine's Day today (14.02.11) because she was busy working.

She said: "I'm actually going to be working all day, so my Valentine will be my fans."

The 'Wizards of Waverly Place' actress - who has been linked to Nick Jonas and Taylor Lautner in the past - previously claimed she thought of Justin as a "brother" and wouldn't be able to date him.

She said: "Oh brother! He's little. No, he's like my little brother. It's weird to me."

However, Canadian-born Justin has hinted he may be dating someone special, although didn't mention Selena by name.

He said: "I'm dating. I date a lot of different people. I'm 16, so I just have fun."