Harry Styles is reportedly being lined up as a mentor on 'The X Factor'.

Harry Styles

Harry Styles

The former One Direction hunk - who shot to fame when he competed on the show in 2010 - is in talks to join the Judges' Houses segment of the ITV programme when the series returns later this year because bosses are convinced he'll be a fan favourite judging by the success he's having since the release of his self-titled debut album.

A source told the Daily Star newspaper: "Everyone is in agreement that Harry would be a ratings winner. His chart positions clearly show he is set to become the biggest solo star from One Direction. Not only does he seem to be a clear fans' favourite he's also being hailed by music critics as well. Nothing has been signed yet but Cowell and Co want to make it happen if schedules allow."

And, although it's not yet known whether he'll take the mentoring role, producers have also reportedly promised him a performance slot during one of the Live Shows.

The 23-year-old heartthrob won't be the only member of the band, which is currently on an extended hiatus, to have an authoritative part on the show as Louis Tomlinson helped Simon out during the Judges' Houses round last year and then took to the stage alongside Steve Aoki to perform his debut solo single 'Just Hold On' just days after his mother Johannah Deakin tragically lost her long battle with leukaemia.

The insider explained: "Louis was the only one to perform on 'The X Factor' last year but all the boys could potentially sing this year."

However, Simon is reportedly still reeling over the fact all of the boys - Harry, Liam Payne and Niall Horan - except Louis signed to rival record labels when they announced they were temporarily parting ways in order to focus on their solo careers.

The source said: "Simon was hurt the others signed to rival labels but at the end of the day he's a businessman and knows it would be good to have them appear."

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