Simon Cowell has hinted he might quit The X Factor before.

But now he's implying that a certain Geordie might take the reins after he's gone.

According to reports, Simon could snub veteran judge Louis Walsh and hand the show to Cheryl Cole.

The music mogul told the Daily Mirror: "My hope is that she can carry the show in the future."

Could this be the end of The X Factor as we know it?

Cowell's contract with ITV1 is up at the end of the year, and a new deal is yet to be negotiated.

A source added: "With his 50th birthday around the corner it would be the perfect time to hand over

"Cheryl has proved she has what it takes. Simon doesn't need to host the show. X Factor made him a global star with a substantial bank balance.

"Now it is time for him to sit back a bit and enjoy the fruits of his labour."

The X Factor's production company, Talkback Thames, insisted there were no further developments and confirmed contract negotiations are still ongoing.