Enrique Iglesias "loves" American Idol.

The Latin pop singer was rumoured to be seriously considering taking up a post as a judge on the hit talent show. It has been reported that contract negotiations fell through at the last minute. Despite the speculation, Enrique hailed the talent show as still being his number one choice of programme, preferring it to rival singing contests the X Factor USA and The Voice.

"A.I. [American Idol]," Enrique told TMZ, when asked which of the three shows is his favourite. "It's not that I wanted to be a judge, I actually love the show... it's a great show."

Enrique had reportedly been offered similar star judging roles on the two rival singing contests, however he isn't bitter things didn't work out with American Idol. The star is currently tied up with a world tour performing with former American Idol judge Jennifer Lopez, and he hasn't ruled out the possibility of a role on the show in the future.

Auditions for the next season of the show got under way in New York City yesterday. The judges have now been confirmed as Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban and Randy Jackson.