Bosses of ITV’s ‘The Voice’ are reportedly prepared to pay Phil Collins whatever it takes for him to join the judging panel.
The 65-year-old musician could pocket an eye-watering sum of money to join the talent show, which has already been rejected by the likes of Kylie Minogue and Jess Glynne.
However, Emma Willis has agreed to continue as the show’s host and ITV bosses are desperate for the programme to be as big in the UK as it is in the US.
A source explained: "Now the ink has dried on Emma’s contract, the important decision of who the coaches are going to be on ‘The Voice’ are being discussed in earnest now.
"ITV have got deeper pockets than the BBC and are sure they can get a credible panel together.
"They’re looking at how popular ‘The Voice’ is in the States and how a mix of rock, pop, country, veteran and current artist coaches have been a hit with viewers. They plan to make a considerable offer to Phil."
The chart-topping star underwent back surgery last year and currently lives in Miami, but ITV bosses are reportedly desperate to have him on board, especially after Ricky Wilson and Paloma Faith declined the chance to make the switch from the BBC to the programme’s new home.
A source told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: "They’re well aware of his health issues so there will be extra budget set aside to make sure he is comfortable if he is prepared to relocate temporarily to London for the job.
"He’ll have a dressing room to rival Simon Cowell’s, if that’s what he wants."