Cowell and Walsh want Scherzinger for 'X-Factor'

Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh are desperate for Nicole Scherzinger to help them during the Judges' Houses 'X Factor' round.

The competitive pair are said to be battling it out to convince the Pussycat Dolls singer – who appeared on the show as a guest judge earlier this year – to join them in the next stage of the competition, and help them decide who makes it through to the live stage of the competition.

A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "Of all the guest judges, Nicole was the one Simon and Louis got on with best."

The two men were joined by several guest judges, also including Pixie Lott, Katy Perry and Geri Halliwell whilst usual panel members Dannii Minogue and Cheryl Cole were absent.

Although the women are about to return, Cowell and Walsh are keen to work closely with Scherzinger once again and are determined to bribe her into helping them.

The source added: “Cheryl and Dannii might still be on the show – but Nicole is the hot new girl on the block. She is sexy, sassy and tells it like it is. Her opinions are valid when it comes to the contestants. And she looks great.

“While Simon has said he’ll lend her his private jet, though, it seems more likely she’ll hook up with Louis because they got on so well.

“Louis is even saying she can choose the location for the Judges’ Houses stage for his acts if she comes along.”

This year's 'The X Factor' starts on Saturday on ITV1.