Akon to work on Burke's album

Akon has confirmed that he will be working on Alexandra Burke's debut album this year.

The R&B star was recruited to write songs for the X Factor winner after she signed a US record contract last month.

"I've had calls to work with Alex and I'm going to do it," Akon told the Daily Star. "I love The X Factor and I love helping to break new artists. To me, it's one of the most enjoyable and important aspects of my job."

Akon teamed up with Burke's fellow X Factor champ Leona Lewis last year, writing 'Forgive Me' for the deluxe edition of the star's Spirit album.

"I haven't seen any of Alex's performances on the show, but then I hadn't seen any of Leona's before I worked with her," he added. "I'm taking people's word on how good Alex is, like I did with Leona.

"It was a really refreshing experience working with Leona as she's so quiet and calm."

Burke's debut album is expected to be released in November.