Keith Urban will bring "a huge country following" to American Idol, bosses reportedly hope.

The panel on the singing contest has been in a state of flux since Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler departed. Mariah Carey has signed up and it's been widely reported Randy Jackson is keeping his position.

Show bosses are thought to be recruiting two new judges, with Keith's name on the table for some time. The 44-year-old has now decided to join and is about to sign his deal, according to New York Post.

"Keith will bring a huge country following to the show, and bring a different viewpoint to the panel," an insider told the publication.

Keith has some TV talent show experience have mentored on the Australian version of The Voice. It's been confirmed he has left the show, adding fuel to the claims he is inking a contract with Idol.

Nicki Minaj is also hotly tipped to be appearing on the US show. Her deal is thought to be more complex though, as she has a deal with drinks company Pepsi. Their rival Coco-Cola sponsors American Idol.

Pharrell Williams and P. Diddy have also been linked to the panel.