Since joining the X Factor judging panel, Cheryl Cole has become an instant hit with both contestants and viewers. Her biggest impression, however, has been on Simon Cowell, who is now desperate to sign her for a second series.

The TV mogul has offered the Geordie beauty double the money – a cool £1 million – to appear on next year’s programme, reports the Daily Mirror. He’ll have to act fast, though, as her band Girls Aloud are in talks to do a US tour – something which would likely affect Cheryl’s ability to do the show.

“(Cheryl) initially signed a one-year deal as she wasn’t sure how she would fare, and Simon didn’t want to commit to an unknown quantity,” says a studio insider. “Now he’s desperate to get her for the new series. He realises he will have to fight to keep her… (he) needs to act fast and get her to sign before she has unavoidable commitments.”