Eminem's New Album Delayed Until Early 2009

US rapper Eminem's new studio album is unlikely to be released until early next year, according to US media reports.

It had been suggested that 'Relapse', the rapper's first album since 2004's 'Encore', would be released in December.

However, an insider told the New York Post newspaper that Eminem is still finishing the project and a release this year was “50/50”.

"Eminem has been through a lot. He is being a perfectionist and is completely obsessive-compulsive about this album,” they said.

“There's a 50-50 chance it will be done by the end of this year - but most likely it'll be the first quarter of next year."

Eminem confirmed details about the album, which has been produced by long term collaborator Dr Dre, last month

Speaking about the album, the rapper said he hoped it would “remind people how I rap” but added he had no plans to tour.