Simon Cowell is said to be well on his way with plans for an American version of The X Factor. His current contract with American Idol prohibits him from launching the rival show, however that contract expires next year and Mr Cowell is thought to be planning to bring The X Factor to Las Vegas.

Sir Phillip Green, who along with Cowell is still in talks with Fox and NBC about bringing the talent show to American TV, told GQ magazine:

“Vegas is tailor-made for this show.”

“To sing in Vegas? I mean, hell, you get to the final 12 [and tell them] ‘Your dream’s come true — you’re going to sing in Vegas!’ ”

“We’ll have a store. And it’ll be online,” Green says. “It’s taking it up a peg.”

Simon is thought to be backing current X Factor stars Dermot O’Leary and Cheryl Cole to present and judge on the new show.