(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Jennifer Lopez is reportedly asking for a 21million deal to return to American Idol.

There has been no official confirmation that the songstress will take her place on the judging panel on the hit show once again, but according to reports show executives are confident she will return.

Sources suggest Jennifer was holding out for a pay package to rival what Simon Cowell was earning when he was a judge on the programme.

The British TV mogul pocketed 21million per year for his appearance on the popular series, which is almost three times the rumoured 8million Jennifer was paid for her stint on the talent contest this year.

Jennifer has begun negotiations with TV bosses, who insist the outcome will be a positive one. FremantleMedia North American chief executive Ccile Frot-Coutaz says the discussions are currently headed in the right direction.

"We're in good shape. No worries. No dark clouds on the horizon," she said.

Jennifer, who would take her seat on the judging panel alongside Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson, celebrated her 42nd birthday on a yacht off Miami, Florida, on Sunday.

The stunning star has had a tough time of late, having announced her split from husband Marc Anthony just over a week ago. (C) Cover Media