Cheryl Cole is "in talks" about her future with Simon Cowell after being dropped from the US version of The X Factor, according to Simon's friend Sinitta.On Thursday, it was reported that the 27-year-old had been axed from the show just three weeks in, with her place as a judge likely to be taken by ex-Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger.She is now thought to be back in the UK as she considers her next career move. Sinitta – a regular guest on the UK show - told ITV1's Daybreak: "There is something going on.
"All I can say is Simon and Cheryl are very close and I believe that they are in talks trying to sort something out and as soon as they agree on something then we'll hear about it. "UK X Factor bosses are reportedly keen for the Girls Aloud singer to return to the judging panel of the British version of the show.An ITV insider told the Daily Mail: "Of course we would be glad to have her back. She is Cheryl Cole. "With filming due to begin next Wednesday a decision will need to be made quickly.But some sources claim her treatment in the US has left her angry with Simon.According to the Mirror, Cheryl said she had been "hung out to dry", with a friend adding: "She's so upset she's not even sure she wants to do the UK version. "Celebrity website TMZ said Cheryl was dropped from the judging panel because producers feared the American audience would not understand her Geordie accent.There were also concerns Cheryl, whose place on the show was only confirmed on May 5, had a "lack of chemistry" with fellow X Factor judge Paula Abdul, the US website said.
Friends of Cheryl has dismissed those claims, however, adding: "Her language, accent and diction were heavily screen-tested. "The network knew exactly what she could do before things kicked off. "Meanwhile, celebrity fans in the UK have been showing their support for the star – last seen in public on May 19 at the Chicago auditions.Among the first – Dannii Minogue, who recently announced her departure from the British version of the show. "Judging roles should come with a life jacket, drop-down oxygen and a life raft," she tweeted.X Factor contestants JLS have also backed the singer, with Marvin Humes saying: "It's quite disappointing, obviously. "Cheryl is an incredibly strong woman – she has been through a lot – and I think she will bounce back from this, no problem. "She will be welcomed with open arms, and everyone wants to see her return to the UK version of the show. It would be amazing," he added.So far, spokespeople for The X Factor, Cheryl and Simon have refused to confirm or comment on her departure.