TV
It has also been claimed that Carol Vorderman's future on the show is in doubt - despite bookies giving odds of 8-1 on the long-time co-host taking over the main presenter role.
Other possibilities are said to include chorister-turned-presenter Aled Jones, Gyles Brandreth and Michael Aspel.
The producers of Countdown are said to be looking to cut costs which, according to MediaGuardian, leaves a question mark over Voderman's role.
"We will be announcing a replacement for Des O'Connor in due course. We are currently in negotiations with Carol," said Channel 4.
O'Connor, who joined the show in January last year, this week said he would leave at the end of the present series.
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