Photo: WENN.com

2009 American Idol runner-up is rumoured to be making a full-time return to the US talent show as a judge on the upcoming series.

The singer, whose new album 'Trespassing' is released in the UK this week, is set to replace Jennifer Lopez on the judging panel of this year's show.

"They have been talking about Adam for over a month," says a source to US website E! News. "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."

Lambert is currently enjoying the biggest year of his career - having topped the US album charts with his latest release plus his current stint with Queen, stepping into the shoes of Freddie Mercury at the band's 2012 shows.

Below: Adam Lambert live at London's G.A.Y.