Kelly Rowland could return to The X Factor this year, it has been claimed.
The singer was widely rumoured to have quit the show following a turbulent stint as a judge last year, during which she allegedly clashed with Tulisa Contostavlos over bullying claims and missed a week after staying in Los Angeles with a sore throat.
Rowland was said to have become homesick during last year's X Factor and tired of the media "circus" surrounding the show, including reports that she often ditched her artists to promote her album.
However, producers are currently discussing the judging panel for this year's competition and want the Destiny's Child star to return, The Sun reports.
"It seems to be taken as read that Kelly is not coming back but that is wrong. Simon Cowell and executive producer Richard Holloway were very pleased with her on last year's show and would have her back," a source said.
"It's at an early stage and discussions have yet to start. But Kelly is still very much in the mix."
Gary Barlow is already in talks to return to the panel, while last year's winning judge Contostavlos and Louis Walsh are expected to judge the new series.
Rowland's friend added: "Kelly had a great time and is actually very keen to come back. She loved all the drama, even when it was pretty harsh against her. Kelly is a tough cookie and a few barbs from viewers or whoever is water off a duck's back to her.
"Yes, it was a draining experience and one she probably didn't realise at the outset was going to be quite so gruelling. But mentoring her acts - especially Misha B - was really rewarding for her and she loved it. Talks haven't started but they will soon."
Adele is apparently on the producers' wish list, although she is unlikely to join The X Factor following last month's Brits furore. Estelle has also been tipped to replace Rowland should she quit.
An X Factor spokesman insisted: "No decisions have been made on this year's judging panel."
