Jackson 'to announce comeback tour'

Michael Jackson is to visit 30 cities as part of a comeback world tour, according to reports.

The singer was ready to sign a deal which would see him perform exclusively at one of the big Las Vegas casinos, but is instead considering the global tour as a way of dealing with his financial problems.

"Michael said he wasn't doing a Vegas residency but was going on a world tour, taking in 30 cities next year," a source close to the star told The Sun.

"He said he wanted to do it for his kids. He wants them to see what he does, and he wants to take them on the road. He said he was on his way to Los Angeles to finalise the details."

Jackson last toured worldwide in 1997, when his 'HIStory' tour saw him visit 58 cities and perform before more than 4.5 million fans.