Randy Jackson will apparently remain as an American Idol judge.

There has been much speculation surrounding whether or not the record producer would return to the hit TV talent show, with rumours that he was considering taking on a back-stage mentor role in the upcoming season.

However, according to Deadline, Randy - who has served on the series' panel since it began in 2002 - has closed a deal with Fox to appear on the show.

The negotiations are said to have taken a more positive turn after talks with Enrique Iglesias "fell through".

The Latin pop singer was rumoured to be seriously considering taking up a post as a judge.

Music mogul Simon Cowell took to Twitter to give his opinion on Randy's return.

"Just heard Randy is back on Idol," the former Idol judge said. "Right decision (sic)."

Mariah Carey was confirmed as one of the show's new judges earlier this year, while many other names have been linked to the panel, including Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban, Joe Jonas and Pharrell Williams.

Deadline reports that Fox is expected to unveil the new judging panel this week, as it "finalises the contracts" for Keith and Nicki.