X FACTOR bosses have approached top showbiz agents in a bid to replace host Kate Thornton.

It is rumoured that they have compiled a list of presenters to take over from Kate in next years series.

Included on the list is Fearne Cotton and Dermot O’Leary, who has recently moved to the BBC.

Last night, a source said: “Kate is a lovely girl but the feeling is they want to send the fourth series show into the stratosphere.

“It’s one of Britain’s top rated shows and bosses are constantly looking for ways to revamp the format.

“Replacing Kate is one of the options for the next series.�

Last night, an X Factor spokeswoman said: “Kate is a fantastic presenter and we’re in the middle of an incredibly successful third series.

“Her talent in running a major live studio show is unprecedented and we look forward to continuing to work with her.�

Dermot O’Leary’s agent, however, was staying tight-lipped.