Cheryl Cole will reportedly replace Kelly Rowland on The X Factor, despite being sacked from the series last year.

The 'Promise This' singer was famously axed from the American version of the show last year by show boss Simon Cowell, who believed that the US audience hadn't warmed to her.

Despite the humiliation of being ousted from the popular talent contest, Simon reportedly wants Cheryl back on the UK version following a decrease in ratings on the last series.

"Cheryl is part of The X Factor family. Formal discussions have yet to take place but if she wants to come back she would be welcomed with open arms," a source close to Simon told The Mirror.

"For sure, if she wanted to – 100%. I think she probably misses me," they added.

Additionally, ITV insiders say that Cheryl is more than welcome to come back. "We’d welcome her with open arms. She was hugely popular and she’s totally gorgeous. We’d love to have her back."

Would you like to see Cheryl back on The X Factor?

Cheryl Cole, Nicole Scherzinger, L.A. Reid, Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul at X Factor USA press conference...