The singer has been offered a spot on the US show following the axing of ex Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger and Eighties star Paula Abdul.

The firebrand US singer — currently divorcing Brit comic Russell Brand — has been handpicked by show boss Simon Cowell. Katy impressed as a guest judge on the UK show two years ago.

Simon said: "I worked with Katy once. I think she would be fun because she is hard — in a good way — and she's feisty."

Katy has also been linked with a slot on the UK version as Kelly Rowland looks unlikely to return.

A number of big names have been touted as US judges and Simon has admitted he would love to sign Madonna.

Despite being "expensive", Simon said: "She would be great, in terms of experience, success... brilliant."

However, speaking to his ex Terri Seymour on US TV, Simon ruled out moves for Mariah Carey and Sir Elton John.

He said: "I don't think Mariah would make that commitment. She's just had kids."

On a rumoured role for Elton, Simon said: "Absolutely not. He wouldn't do it and he'd be really difficult to work with."

Simon also insisted it was "nonsense" he had offered Beyonce $100million (£63million) to appear.





By ANGHARAD LLEWELLYN
Published: 08th February 2012
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/4116386/Simon-Cowell-suggests-Madonna-and-Katy-Perry-are-right-for-The-X-Factor-USA.html#comment-rig