L.A. Reid has claimed Cheryl Cole will be a judge on the US version of the 'The X Factor'

According to the record producer, the British pop singer ' who is already a judge on the UK version of the talent search show ' will join, show boss Simon Cowell and a mystery third person on the panel when it launches in September.

Speaking at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards in Los Angeles on Saturday (02.04.11), L.A. told the Daily Mirror newspaper: 'We're gonna compete against 'American Idol', which is just fine. I'm very confident. But along with Simon Cowell and Cheryl, I don't know who the other judge is.'

Simon is thought to have pushed TV bosses at network Fox, who are making the series, to sign up Cheryl even though she has a relatively low profile stateside.

A source said: 'He believes Cheryl has that rare ability to connect with viewers that few others have.

'Even though she is still relatively unknown, Simon told Fox TV executives that Cheryl will prove an instant success with viewers when the series begins.'

Speculation as to who the third judge will be has included Paula Abdul, Katy Perry, Nicole Scherzinger, George Michael and Nicki Minaj, while music legend Stevie Wonder also put himself forward over the weekend.

The 'Superstitious' singer said: 'Simon should give me a buzz. I love 'X Factor' and to be a judge would be great. Seeking out for new talent? I have an ear for it.'

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