[Denver]

https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebri...-star-14389193

Strictly Come Dancing bosses are keen to fill Darcey Bussell's judge's chair with another ballet star - and Cuban Carlos Acosta top of the list.

Carlos has danced with Darcey previously and it has reported that the Beeb would be willing to break the bank to land the 45-year-old.

It has been rumoured that Strictly bosses would trump the pay of Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno Tonioli and head judge Shirley Ballas, by offering more than £150,000 per series extra to get the dance star.

It is thought that £400,000 will be required to get Carlos to sign on the dotted line, with the choreographer recently agreeing to be Birmingham Royal Ballet’s new artistic director.

The globally sought-after choreographer has already agreed to be Birmingham Royal Ballet’s new artistic director from next year.

A Strictly insider told The Sun that Carlos "has been on Strictly’s radar for a long time," as he is a "huge name in the dance world."

They cited the popularity of Shirley Ballas, as she has proved that "audiences love genuine experts, even if they’re not a household name yet."

The exuberance of Bruno as the most liveliest judge could be challenged if Carlos signs up, as he had been described as "a vibrant character" who is "full of energy, with vast experience in his field."

Carlos has been described an "exciting prospect" if he signs up, though the favourite to take the judge's spot still remains former Strictly pro Karen Hardy.

The Cuban dance hero was awarded the CBE in 2014 for his services to ballet, after joining the Royal Ballet in 1998.

He is based in the UK and is married to 37-year-old former model Charlotte Holland. They have three children, including twin daughters aged two.