Cheryl Cole is making a return to The X Factor as a mentor in the later rounds with Gary Barlow. The 29-year-old was reportedly signed up by the Take That singer when they had a drink together after the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee concert. According to a source, he’s been keeping this under wraps for months.

“Only Gary’s intimate inner circle know. He hasn’t even discussed it with Simon or ITV bosses. It’s been seriously top secret stuff.”

Cloak and dagger anyone?

Done deal

It’s rumoured that Gary has saying that it would be his former Take That band member Robbie William’s that would join him at his home for the judges houses phase of the competition. A source confirmed this rumour, stating that Gary had been planting red herrings along the way so no-one would work out that it was really Britain’s favourite Geordie that was joining him.

“They’re all under the impression it’s going to be Robbie. No one even noticed the dates for the recording clashed with Robbie’s new solo tour.”

The sneaky monkey.

She’s back

Reports of the come- back circulated last night as it was rumoured that she would indeed return to the show, after her shock exit from the US X Factor last year. Despite rumours that the deal was done behind Cowell’s back – he tweeted around 3am UK time congratulating the singer.

“Welcome back Cheryl X”

If only tweets could convey emotion. Is this a yay or a nay?

Who’s got who?

According to speculation, the Fight For This Love singer will be helping Gary with the Over 25’s category. Nicole Scherzinger is looking after the boys and has reportedly enlisted the help of Ne-Yo to guide her young men through the competition. Tulisa is rumoured to have the girls and will be introducing them to Tinie Tempah as her mentor, with Louis enlisting old favourite Sharon Osbourne to help with the groups.

Bring on the judges houses – it’s going to be a celeb fest.