Dermot O’Leary could make a sensational return to The X Factor in plans being discussed by show bosses.
Chiefs of the ITV talent show have secretly reached out to the star presenter — axed by Simon Cowell last year — to see if he will consider a comeback.
The approach through his agent John Noel signals bad news for Olly Murs and Caroline Flack, who could make way after just one year.
But sources say Radio 2 presenter Dermot, 42, will carefully weigh up his options before making a decision — given the success of his work since leaving X Factor including new BBC Saturday night show Getaway Car.
A TV insider revealed to The Sun: “There has been a quiet approach via his management company.
“He’s got more offers than he has ever had in his career at the moment, but he isn’t on an exclusive contract with the BBC and would definitely love to work with ITV. For him the decision will probably come down to balance.
“A show like The X Factor is a massive commitment and he wants to be able to continue making documentaries about more serious subjects as well.”
X Factor bosses are considering another big shake-up of the show, which could also see new judges Nick Grimshaw and Rita Ora leave after a year.
A source close to Simon Cowell said: “His focus at the moment is on Britain’s Got Talent and he will think about X Factor after that.”
Dermot (pictured in a sketch from the National Television Awards, which he has hosted since 2010) was critical of X Factor last month, recommending it be taken off the air for a year and lose the controversial Six Chair Challenge round.
Ratings suffered after his departure, drawing the lowest figures since the show’s launch in 2004.
