[reece(:]

She's one of the original pop divas with a huge catalogue of hits.

And X Factor producers are reportedly lining up superstar Mariah Carey to replace Nicole Scherzinger on the judging panel when the ITV singing competition returns this autumn.

According to The Mirror, the former Pussycat Dolls singer - a fan favourite for her wacky sayings and loud personality - has been stalling signing her new contract, while Mariah is said to be 'really keen'.

The Hero hitmaker has plenty of past experience, having acted as a guest judge on American Idol in the US.

She also boasts the same star power and raw talent that Nicole currently brings to the panel - and remains one of the best-selling artists of all time.

A source told the paper: 'Mariah really wants to do it. Nicole is not committing at the moment, although she did meet up with Simon Cowell this week.'

MailOnline has contacted both singers' representatives for comment.

Louis Walsh recently revealed that Nicole could be stalling due to a potential big screen remake of music Wicked.

The Irish music manager told The Mirror, 'Nicole might be getting a big movie like Wicked', adding that Mel B would be his top choice to replace her.

Mel - who is currently in the midst of a difficult divorce battle with husband Stephen Belafonte - proved popular with UK viewers for her no-nonsense feedback when she acted as a judge on the show in 2014.

Louis candidly admitted that his own seat was safe, having negotiated a deal to remain on Simon Cowell's flagship programme for another two years.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz...#ixzz4gurpvQEt

Legend coming?