The Super Bass singer is reportedly close to signing a deal to join Mariah Carey on the judging panel of the US talent show.

One insider said: '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.'

A second source added to Us Weekly magazine: 'She is 100% confirmed to judge American Idol.'

If she does join the show, Minaj – born Onika Tanya Maraj – will sit alongside Carey on the panel, after the five-times Grammy-winning signer was announced as a judge last month.

The singer reportedly signed an $18 million deal to join the show, following the departures of Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.

Carey said of her role: '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.

'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.
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