X Factor bosses are reportedly trying to persuade George Michael to perform on this year’s X Factor live final. The show achieved a record 15 million viewers last Sunday and bosses are hoping to hit the 20 mililon mark on the night of the final.

An insider told the News of the World: “This is a cloak-and-dagger operation. Everything surrounding George’s appearance is shrouded in secrecy.

“We’re all very excited because nobody saw it coming. It’s a real coup.

“And this will be a huge way for him to return to the music scene.”