Nicole Scherzinger is "rooting for" Britney Spears in her pursuit to become an X Factor judge.

Nicole was a judge on last season's US version of Simon Cowell's TV reality singing contest, but left the programme to pursue other professional ambitions.

Britney is reportedly "closer than ever" to sealing a deal to become a panelist and the songstress has Nicole's support.

"I think that it's something that we can't deny, but there's something about Britney that we... are always rooting for her and behind her no matter what," Nicole told E! Online. "Britney is so bubbly and warm and everyone loves her anyway, so she just has to be herself."

It was previously reported that Britney had been offered a $10 million contract for the second season of the talent show. However, it is now believed the figure will be closer to $15 million which would eclipse Jennifer Lopez's $12 million salary for American Idol.

Judge Simon is eager to sign Britney up before he finalises the rest of the panel.

Britney's fianc Jason Trawick is believed to be handling the negotiations.

The first round of X Factor auditions began on March 1.