It has been revealed that Simon Cowell has invited singer George Michael to become a judge on the U.S. version of the talent show The X Factor according to The Sun newspaper.

The former Wham! star, 47, will join pop mogul Cowell and singer Cheryl Cole, 27, on the debut series in the States next year.

It will allow the troubled singer to get his career back on track after his spell behind bars earlier this year for driving while under the influence of drugs.

“George is going to take the job. It’s an amazing opportunity to get back in the limelight and reverse his recent bad spell,” a source said. “Simon knows that Americans love him. He is as big in the U.S. as he is over here. He is a true star and has the wit and experience for the job. It’s the perfect platform to resurrect his career.”

Cowell, 51, is believed to have offered him a deal worth more than £1 million  and even visited Michael at his home to discuss the role in November.

The “Freedom” star, who sang with Britain’s “X Factor” winner Joe McElderry on last year’s final show, is a huge fan of reality TV.

But he must apply for a U.S. work permit — and due to his recent brush with the law, it could prove difficult to obtain.