Adam Lambert is set to join the American Idol judging panel.

The flamboyant singer - who came second on the talent search contest in 2009 - is said to have been in talks for a month with show bosses, who see him as the perfect addition to the programme because he has such a big fan base and would understand the challenges the contestants must deal with.

"He personifies the show, and will be a popular choice right from the start. He knows what it's like to be on the receiving end of the judges' comments, he has a human touch, and they know they can't go wrong if they bring him on. He would be able to bring a unique perspective to the show. People love him," a source told E! News.

The panel currently features Jennifer Lopez - who is rumored to be leaving to focus on her music career - Steven Tyler, both of whom joined the show two years ago, and Randy Jackson, who has been a judge since it began.

Despite the question marks hanging over Jennifer's American Idol future, the insider suggested Adam is not being seen as her replacement but would take over from Randy in a bid to freshen up the format. "Randy is great, but he's part of the old Idol They want to keep the soul of the show but have a new look, and for that reason he may well not be part of the new line up," the source added.

While Steven's future is also said to be "up in the air," bosses want to do whatever it takes to keep their female judge. "I don't know if they can afford Jennifer, but they have let it be known that she has a guaranteed spot if she wants it. She appeals to everyone so the big bosses are in favor of keeping her on," another source said.

A spokesperson for Idol declined to comment on the rumors.