Former X Factor runner-up Olly Murs is in line for a full-time return to the programme next year – as a judge.
Show bosses think his CV makes him the ideal replacement for Gary Barlow, who is leaving at the end of this series.
Olly, 29, has had four No1 singles since he was a contestant in 2009, and his infectious personality has been a big hit with viewers during the two years he hosted spin-off show The Xtra Factor.
He also impressed producers in his X Factor role this year as a guest mentor when he helped Gary select his three acts for the live shows.
An insider said: “We’d love to get Olly back as a young judge to freshen things up.
“He can relate to the other singers like no one else. Crucially, boss Simon Cowell is on good terms with Olly so if he can fit auditions around his career we think he would be perfect.
“Deals won’t be done until the series ends but Olly is a front runner.”
When asked a fortnight ago about his links with X Factor and the chance of joining the panel, Olly said: “I’m always in it... I’m always around so, yes, maybe one day I will be a judge.”
Take That star Gary, 42, confirmed at the weekend he was quitting the show to concentrate on his music.
X Factor said it would not yet comment on next year’s panel.
I'd think he'd be cool on the panel actually, can you imagine a panel made up of former contestants. I'd love Leona to be a permanent judge, but doubt that will ever happen.
Nah, Robbie Williams would be a tonne better and it would feel way more natural.
Robbie has decades of experience just like Gary, far more commercial success and he's a LOVER of the show. He's one of the people that's done it all and has a lot of wisdom to share. Olly's not really had too much to deal with. He's a bad choice.
