Speculation is mounting that Paula Abdul may join a rival TV talent show in the US, following her departure from American Idol earlier this week. According to reports in the US, Abdul has been holding talks with Nigel Lythgoe, producer of the hit US series So You Think You Can Dance. And he confirmed to the trade paper Variety that there was "no question" he wanted to sign the singer for the judging panel. He added that he could not think of anyone else with her "experience of being a dancer, being a choreographer and being a judge." Lythgoe - best known in the UK as one of the judges on Popstars, said he had not approached Abdul about becoming a permanent judge, instead suggesting she might have a recurring role as a choreographer or guest judge. However he also hinted that she might return to American Idol at some point. "Until Idol goes on the air, there's always an opportunity for negotiation," he said, adding later: "I don't think it's a publicity stunt." Abdul announced her intention to quit on Tuesday, saying on the social networking site Twitter, "With sadness in my heart, I've decided not to return."
