Kanye West in talks to join Mariah Carey as a judge on American Idol

Kanye West is in the running as a potential judge on the new series of American Idol, it has been revealed.

The news should please Mariah Carey. The diva was reportedly furious to learn that Nicki Minaj was 'in talks' with producers, having assumed she would be 'the only girl'.

Kanye is likely to be a much more suitable companion for Mariah, although his taste for bling, and diva tendencies, could rival even hers.

Sources close to the production have revealed that the rapper has 'expressed interest' in filling the third spot on the show.

'He's on the fence,' sources told TMZ, because he's not sure if American Idol 'is in his wheelhouse'.

If he does accept the role the producers would 'at least' match Mariah's salary - thought to be around $18m.