X Factor 2015: Nick Grimshaw 'in final talks' to replace Louis Walsh on judging panel
Simon Cowell is also said to be poaching fellow BBC talent Rita Ora
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Nick Grimshaw is expected to become a judge on the next series of The X Factor, according to reports.
The Radio 1 DJ, who presents the station’s breakfast show, is thought to be in line to take Louis Walsh’s place on the judging panel.
The 30-year-old is said to have met with Simon Cowell, who allegedly favours Grimshaw due to his northern roots, to secure his contract.
Cowell told The Sun: “I think anyone who works in the business, and loves music, has a right to be on this show.
“Nick loves artists and music, that’s what I love about him. I like the fact he’s from the North so he represents them.”
Grimshaw took over the Radio 1 breakfast show from Chris Moyles in 2012 but has lost hundreds of thousands of listeners as the station has attempted to attract a younger audience.
It is understood the BBC has no plans to replace him if he joins the ITV singing show and wants him to stay.
Another name in the running to join The X Factor is Rita Ora - who has appeared as a judge on the BBC's rival show, The Voice.
Cowell has poached talent from his rivals before, notably taking Alesha Dixon from Strictly Come Dancing to Britain's Got Talent.
With additional reporting from the Press Association
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