Sara Cox is reportedly in talks to become the fourth judge on The X Factor panel.
The former BBC Radio 1 DJ has emerged as a surprise candidate for the final spot on the talent show panel should ex-Spice Girl Mel B's deal fall through.
Producers are thought to have come to terms with Mel B for the role, but have lined up Sara in case she doesn't sign on the dotted line as expected.
Sara, 39, met with bosses last week and they are impressed with her feisty personality.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Bosses are pretty certain they will be able to officially unveil Mel B as the fourth 'X Factor' judge next week but she hasn't signed a deal yet.
"There have been upsets in the past with the judging panel and so producers want to have other names in the frame if they are needed.
"Sara Cox is an intriguing one. She met with producers last week and talked over the role and told them she was interested."
Meanwhile, head judge and producer Simon Cowell has announced he has settled on a fourth judge, who is to be announced this week.
The panellist will join Simon, Cheryl Cole and Louis Walsh.
Tagged in Mel B Sara Cox Simon Cowell