Cheryl Cole told do ditch “uncool” boyfriend Derek Hough

It is believed that Cole – a judge on the US version of the X Factor – was advised to ditch the “small-time” American dancer to build a more appealing image.

A source close to the show said that Fox executives believe that if Girls Aloud star Cheryl is “going to win over Hollywood”, then she would be “better off” portraying herself as a “single girl-about-town”.

The insider added that, although “Derek may be dreaming of worldwide stardom”, he is seen as nothing more than a bit-part player to American TV audiences.

Simon Cowell is believed to be preparing a list of more suitable eligible bachelors for 27-year-old Cheryl to date, while Tracy Anderson – the stars’ choice of fitness guru – is now working with the Promise This hitmaker to craft a body appropriate for Los Angeles.

The insider pointed out that, as “everyone knows being on TV puts a few pounds on” presenters, Cheryl is determined to return to her “normal trim figure” so US television viewers see her “in perfect shape”.

With the pop star “desperate to make it in the US”, X Factor producers “are keen to help her become a star”.