Lionel Richie linked to 'X Factor' role

Lionel Richie has been linked to a role on the UK version of The X Factor.

According to a report in The Sun, the 'Hello' star has joined a list of possible new judges - should Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole decide not to return to the panel.

Cowell's position has remained unclear since it was confirmed that he would launch the competition in America later this year - running at the same time as the ITV1 competition. Meanwhile, Cole is still waiting to find out if she will appear on the US edition.

"It has reached crunch time as we need to start announcing the UK judges," a source told the paper.

Richie is the latest name said to be under consideration to replace Cowell. Lily Allen and Gary Barlow have both been tipped to appear, while Robbie Williams reportedly turned down a £2 million offer to join the show.

Dannii Minogue and Louis Walsh are said to be awaiting contracts after apparently being told that they would have to apply for their positions again.

Cowell has reportedly returned to the UK and is said to be holding meetings with ITV bosses today.

> Fincham: 'X Factor reports are speculation'