Nicki Minaj to judge on American Idol

Los Angeles - Nicki Minaj is set to be unveiled as the new American Idol  judge.

The singer is reportedly close to signing a deal to join Mariah Carey on the judging panel of the US talent show. According to reports, Nicki will be signing an $18m deal to join the show, following the departures of Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.

"I'm not sure the deal is completely done yet, but yes, she is definitely doing it. A few more slight things to sign off on but it is happening," one insider said.

A second source added to Us Weekly magazine: "She is 100 per cent confirmed to judge American Idol."

If she does join the show, Nicki will sit alongside Mariah on the panel. Mariah was annouced as a judge by die producers, just last month.

"As a singer, songwriter and producer, it's going to be fun and rewarding to help find new talent and give back to American Idol," Nicki said.

"I'm currently in the studio working on my new album and its first single, Triumphant, which will be out early next month. I can't wait to channel my creative energy as a part of this show which is a massive global phenomenon."

Nick Jonas is reportedly in the running to complete the line-up as original judge Randy Jackson is set to come off the panel and be given a job as a mentor to the contestants.