Mariah Carey is reportedly "in serious talks" to join the judging panel of American Idol.

The R&B superstar may replace current judge Randy Jackson should she sign on to the TV talent show. Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler announced that he was leaving Idol Thursday and co-star Jennifer Lopez also said that "it's time for her to go".

Both American Idol producers and Randy seem to believe that it is time for some fresh blood on the panel.

Randy is Mariah's manager and would be happy to see her take his place on the programme.

"Show producers think they need to freshen everything up now," a source told Us Weekly magazine.

"They are in serious talks with Mariah and it's very close to being a done deal. And they will move Randy into a more mentoring role."

Although Jennifer has spoken about her desire to leave, she is reportedly still working on a contract for her third season as judge on Idol.

"It's complicated and fluid. It might get resolved very quickly or may drag on for another few weeks," a source told Deadline. "All the usual reasons; money, schedules, desire to continue, and overall makeup of the judges panel."