Nicki Minaj For The X Factor USA?

Move over Cheryl, Nicki has been linked to the job…

Nicki Minaj is the surprise new name in the frame for a spot on the judging panel of The X Factor USA.

Simon Cowell and Fox TV bosses are close to making a decision but are giving the Pink Friday star “serious consideration”, reports The New York Post.

Apparently Simon met up with the Check It Out rapper in LA several weeks ago to discuss a deal. An insider is quoted as saying: “Simon thinks Nicki is fantastic. She's sassy, she looks great and she has bags of personality. Nicki has a large following and she fits well with the ethos of the show, which plans to usher in a new generation of musical talent.

“This isn't a done deal yet,” the source continued, “but Nicki would be great for the show. She fits the ideal that X Factor will be exciting, vibrant and different. And the show would also be great for her career.”

The X Factor voiceover man Peter Dickson has spoken publicly about Cheryl Cole’s fading chances to nab a spot on the US judging panel. “I think it's all in complete disarray,” he told the Daily Star. “They have only just decided they are not going to have Cheryl on the panel.”

As recently reported on MTV, music mogul LA Reid is the first judge after Simon to be confirmed for the talent show. Enrique Iglesias has reportedly been offered the job of host.

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