X Factor judges yet to sign up

The 'X Factor' is in disarray after it was revealed none of the judges have signed to take part in this year's show - just weeks before auditions are scheduled to start.

Preparations for the 2011 series have been put to the side while Simon Cowell organises the new US version of the pop star search show leaving UK bosses currently with no judging panel.

Host Dermot O'Leary is also yet to pen a new deal to front the programme again.

Simon will definitely be involved with the American series, while Cheryl Cole and Dermot have also been in negotiations to take part in their same roles but no decision has been made yet leaving ITV in the dark.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "This is causing producers a headache as the contract process always takes some time to hammer out."

However, the other two judges, Louis Walsh and Dannii Minogue, are believed to be set to sign up soon.

Fox - the network broadcasting the Stateside 'X Factor' - and Simon are set to announce the American line-up in the next few weeks with the live finals starting in September the same time as the UK shows.

ITV have offered to fly the 51-year-old music mogul back and forth between the two countries via private jet so he can take part, but are worried if Cheryl and Dermot are involved it could affect rehearsals and the amount of time the mentors spend with their acts.

The source added: "ITV is pulling out all the stops to ensure Simon can do both shows, but he still hasn't agreed anything, which is frustrating. If Cheryl and Dermot also have to travel back and forth it could be tricky. But the last thing they want is for any of them to pull out."

Meanwhile, the 'X Factor' bosses have dropped auditions in Ireland this year.

Despite the success of acts such as Mary Byrne and Jedward following their appearances on the show it has been decided the judges will only see pop hopefuls in Cardiff, London, Liverpool, Birmingham, Glasgow and Manchester.

An 'X Factor' spokesperson confirmed: "We are not going to Ireland this year."