Michael Jackson was keen to sing with Cheryl

Michael Jackson wanted to work with Cheryl Cole.

The 'Thriller' singer - who tragically and unexpectedly died in June 2009 - was reportedly keen to collaborate with the 'Promise This' hitmaker after hearing about her from their mutual friend will.i.am.

The Black Eyed Peas star - who had produced a number of tracks for Michael before his death, as well as teaming up with Cheryl for her debut album '3 Words' - said: "I told him Cheryl was the hottest thing in the UK and could sing and dance - basically, she was the complete package.

"He would have worked with her, no doubt, and it would have been something special. They are both total perfectionists when it comes to their work so it would have been something really big. It's just a shame it can never happen now."

Although she will never sing alongside Michael, will.i.am insist there are plenty of big name stars who are still desperate to work with Cheryl as she launches her career in the US this year.

He said: "There are still lots of great artists waiting to work with Cheryl when she gets over to the US - The Peas, Justin Bieber and Usher.

"But her and Michael would have created something that would make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. Michael was excited about everything I told him about Cheryl. It could have been one of the great collaborations of recent history."