Kanye West in Talks to Become AMERICAN IDOL Judge

TMZ is reporting that Kanye West is currently in negotiations to become a judge on AMERICAN IDOL when the FOX competition returns next season. Sources tell TMZ that 'Idol' execs have "reached out" to West about filling one of the judge's seats recently vacated by Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. 

According to the source, the superstar has not yet fully committed to the offer. "He's on the fence," revealed the source, "because he's not sure if "A.I." is in his wheelhouse." Another sticking point could be the huge salary that West would most likely demand. Said the source, "Idol" would "at least match Mariah's salary" - a cool $18 mil a year."

Representatives of West declined to comment on the report.  

BWW reported earlier this week that pop star Nicki Minaj had been named a new judge on the show. The singer would join newcomer Mariah Carey at the judge's panel. A source revealed that the rapper was "100% confirmed to judge American Idol."

Rumors that Nick Jonas may possibly take the place of long-time Idol judge Randy Jackson, have been circulating since July. Jackson has revealed that he would like to take on a mentoring role in the upcoming season.