Simon Cowellis reportedly stirring things between Kelly Rowland in a bid to cause a feud between the pair.
According to N-Dubz singer and Rowland to be on-screen rivals, much like former panelists Cheryl Cole and Dannii Minogue.
A source told the publication: "Simon loved the stories about how Cheryl and Dannii didn't get on. He thought it added to the spark of the show,"
They continued: "He thinks Kelly and Tulisa are great but they're too friendly and he wants a bit of tension between them."
In an attempt to cause a rift between the ladies, SiCo has apparently been sending them both messages, with the insider explaining: "He keeps texting Kelly and Tulisa separately and reminding them that they'd better win and that they have to be successful."
"He's creating an atmosphere of competition between them but he keeps saying it'll make for better live finals. He's determined to end the niceness between them before those shows start."
Fellow XF judge Louis Walsh has also previously stated her believes Contostavlos and Kelly will eventually fall out, telling Now: "There was always rivalry between Cheryl and Dannii. It wasn't a bad thing, but I think Kelly and Tulisa get on better."
The 59-year old added: "They're going to fall out, though, especially about the music. Kelly doesn't understand how things work in England. She has to realise it's not all about the singing - likeability is number one. She's not used to being criticised either."