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NEW ROLE?: Estelle

ESTELLE IS set to replace Kelly Rowland on the X Factor, it has been reported.

The American Boy singer is said to be in talks with Simon Cowell about the possibility of joining the popular ITV1 show later this year.

This news comes after it was reported that former Destiny’s Child star, Rowland, had given up her spot on the famous judging panel to focus on her solo career in the US.

A source told The Sun newspaper: “Estelle's name is very high on his list now and serious enquiries have been made as to her availability for auditions in May.”

Last Friday Cowell added fuel to the rumour mill by posting a cryptic message on Twitter.

He wrote: “We have a few surprises to announce soon. This is getting interesting...”

Former judges, Tulisa Contostavlos – who mentored last year's winners Little Mix – Take That’s Gary Barlow and Louis Walsh have all been offered pay rises to return to the series, it has been claimed.