Cheryl Cole could reportedly make a surprise comeback to the judging panel if The X Factor returns in 2022.

After more than 15 years at the heart of ITV's autumn schedules, the talent contest was rested last year and will also be off the air this year ahead of an expected return next year.

Creator and head judge Simon Cowell is currently working on plans for the show's comeback and according to The Mirror, Cole's name "has been brought up in talks" about the judging panel.

"Cheryl is still very much in the Cowell fold. She trusts him and he enjoys working with her," a source told the newspaper.

"He brought her back on TV with The Greatest Dancer and could do the same with the new series of X Factor."

The insider added: "It's all systems go for X Factor 2022. Bosses feel it's been given enough of a rest and hope by next year, fans will be ready to welcome it back with open arms."

Cole was part of the show's judging panel between 2008 and 2010, returning for two series in 2014 and 2015.