Robbie Williams is in “secret talks” to replace Louis Walsh on The X Factor.
The pop megastar has been lined up for a spot on the new-look judging panel as part of a huge shake-up of the show, according to The Sun.
ITV bosses are said to be confident of signing the former Take That singer, who has made numerous appearances as a guest judge and performer.
Louis Walsh quit on Thursday after appearing on all but one of the talent show’s series since it began in 2004.
He said it was time to move on and will become head judge on Ireland’s Got Talent next year, as well as pursuing other projects.
Reports claim Robbie, 44, has been in private negotiations for weeks after a decade of X Factor boss Simon Cowell trying without success to hire him.
The singer impressed the showrunner while acting as guest judge with Sharon Osbourne in 2016.
Read more: Louis Walsh confirms he’s quitting The X Factor
An insider told The Sun: “Robbie has always been Simon’s dream signing.
“Robbie has already appeared on X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent. Now it appears he’s finally going to get his man.
“Over the past 12 months they’ve become close, as have their wives who are also pals.
“There’s a deal on the table and Robbie is keen to do it. The hope is that the deal is days away from being signed and announced.”
Read more: The X Factor to hold auditions in Spain and Tenerife
Robbie was spotted with Cowell recently at the Britain’s Got Talent semi-finals where he was guest of honour, with Simon even pointing him out to the audience, telling them he was a “very good friend of mine”.
Fellow Take That star Gary Barlow was X Factor head judge between 2011 and 2013 while Simon took a break to concentrate on the US version.
Other global stars in the frame to join this year’s panel include former judge and Spice Girl Mel B, Livin’ La Vida Loca singer Ricky Martin and Kylie Minogue.
ITV has confirmed that Nicole Scherzinger will not return this year and Sharon Osbourne will appear only on the live shows.
Don’t miss out: Three steps to ensure you see all ED!’s latest news on Facebook
Speaking of his exit, Louis said: “I’ve had a fantastic 13 years on The X Factor but the show needs a change and I’m ready to leave.
“I’m looking forward to another series of Ireland’s Got Talent, going back to my day job as a manager, writing my memoirs and seeing the world!”
Entertainment Daily! has contacted ITV for comment.
* The X Factor returns to ITV later this year.
Would Robbie make a good X Factor judge? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think!