Britney Spears ‘closing in on X Factor’

Britney Spears came one step closer to being an X Factor judge over the Easter weekend.

According to Deadline.com, there was a breakthrough in talks as "major deal points" were agreed upon. There have been months of speculation about Britney joining the panel for the US version of X Factor and a deal now looks closer than ever.

It was previously reported that the 30-year-old star had been offered a $10 million contract for the second season of the talent show. However, it is now believed the figure will be closer to $15 million – which would eclipse Jennifer Lopez's $12 million salary for American Idol.

Judge Simon Cowell is eager to sign Britney up before he finalises the rest of the panel – following the departure of Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul.

Britney's fiancé Jason Trawick is believed to be handling the negotiations.

The first round of X Factor auditions began on March 1.

It was recently reported that Britney wants to "resume control of her life" as her father Jamie has been her conservator for four years following her public breakdown.

The star feels ready to make decisions about her personal and professional life, and is believed to have visited court to seek approval to join The X Factor.

In late February, Simon promised the new judging line-up would be announced in a matter of weeks.

The British music mogul has made no secret of his interest in the superstar and has previously revealed she would make the perfect addition to the show.

"The fact that she's one of the most talked about — not just pop stars but people — in the world today, means that you've got this star power. This girl has resilience," he said. "I would think that if she's managed to sustain a family, a career, which is tough, [X Factor would be] a walk in the park. I would be fascinated to hear what she has to say."

Other famous faces linked to the X Factor panel include Fergie, Beyoncé Knowles, Mariah Carey and Janet Jackson.