Simon Cowell wants Harry Styles to appear with him during ‘X Factor’s Judges’ Houses round.
The music mogul is reportedly keen for the One Direction star to join the show as an adviser when he whittles down his contestants ahead of the live shows.
A source said: "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 Simon would also like to see the other members of the band – including Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik and Liam Payne – return to perform solo on the show, despite Niall, Zayn and Liam signing to rival labels.
The insider added: "Louis was the only one to perform on X Factor last year but all the boys could potentially sing this year. 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."
Meanwhile, Nicole Scherzinger is reportedly "days away" from signing a deal to take her place on the judging panel.
Mariah Carey’s name was thrown into the mix at one time but the idea has been shelved after bosses dubbed her expense bill as too high.
The source told the Daily Star on Sunday newspaper: "Nicole is just days away from signing. It’s not yet a done deal but everyone is expecting it to happen. Mariah is one of the biggest selling artists in history and her expense bill for her and her huge entourage was just too high."
Harry Styles for X Factor advisory role?
