Simon Cowell’s tough X Factor choice

SIMON Cowell can’t decide between Sharon Osbourne or Mel B for a place on the ‘X Factor’ panel, and the battle for a judging spot looks set to “go down to the wire”.

The music mogul has started negotiations with the pair and he is expected to name one of them as a replacement for Tulisa – who has reportedly been axed from the panel – but it is proving to be a tough choice.

A source said: “Sharon is seriously back in contention, as is Mel – it could go down to the wire.”

Sharon was a panellist on the show from 2004 to 2007 and she recently dined with Simon and also had dinner with his former flame Mezhgan Hussainy on a separate occasion, while Mel B is still thought to be among the frontrunners for the job despite signing up for ‘America’s Got Talent’ in recent weeks.

An insider added to The Sun newspaper: “It is about getting the right chemistry on each panel and the best dynamic. Simon’s focus is getting the American ‘X Factor’ right then he’ll sort out the British show.” BANG!