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Open in new tab X Factor star Zayn Malik is set to make a shock return to the show – as a judge.
Boss Simon Cowell hopes the hunky singer will draw in an army of teenage fans to boost viewing fi gures. Simon 55, believes signing up one of his One Direction boys, who found fame on the TV smash, would be a hit.
Ex-bandmate Louis Tomlinson, 23, was rumoured to be in the picture. But Zayn’s empty diary makes him the front runner for a seat on the judging panel.
panel. A source said: “Simon has told Zayn he’d make a great judge and it’s him rather than Louis he really wants. Louis and the other boys will be touring next year, too.
“Simon is involved with Zayn’s plans to release a book about his time with the band and the real reasons he walked out. “The last thing Simon wants is another shock, so he’s keeping Zayn very close now and knows about all his projects.”
Spokesmen for Simon and Zayn, 22, yesterday denied the claims. But fans are keen on seeing more of their idol on telly. Paynefroot wrote online: “If Zayn isn’t going to be in One Direction I want him as a judge on X Factor.”