Madonna in talks with Cowell to perform on X-Factor

London (ANI): Pop singer Madonna is reportedly in talks with TV mogul Simon Cowell to perform on this year"s X-Factor. Lady GaGa, Rihanna and Robbie Williams are the other singing sensations whom ITV1 talent show is targeting to rope in for special performances.

"This year is going to be bigger than ever - we are planning to get the best names in music. Madonna and Robbie would be sensational," the Sun quoted a source as saying. Beyonce, who took the stage last year in the show with winner Alexandra Burke is also expected to make an appearance again, as she will be present in London for her concert at O2 stadium in November.

The insider said: "The last series proved anything is possible when Beyonce performed with Alex. The final got 15million viewers and that is enough to entice the biggest stars on to our stage."

According to TV Biz, X Factor bosses have got 6million pounds budget boost this year with which they can pay the big celebrities. Meanwhile, the host Holly Willoughby announced on the social network site Twitter that the show will kick off on August 22, which could embitter ITV bosses who like to keep scheduling secret so rivals can''t steal their thunder.