Mel B 'close to signing X Factor deal'

Rex Features

Plans for Mel B to appear as a guest judge on The X Factor are close to being finalised, a report has claimed.

According to The Sun, the former Spice Girl has cancelled Cannes Film Festival commitments because she is busy negotiating a deal with Simon Cowell.

It is thought that the singer was due to be the guest of honour at a private dinner in Cannes on Monday, but she reportedly pulled out at the last minute.

A source said: "Mel hasn't gone to Cannes. Her people hinted that she is too busy negotiating a contract to star in this year's X Factor."

Insiders suggest that Mel will fill in for Dannii Minogue in the early stages of this year's contest while the Australian judge takes maternity leave.

Earlier this month, the 34-year-old fuelled rumours linking her to the ITV1 show by claiming that an announcement would soon be made about her involvement.