It has been revealed that Arlene Phillips, the Strictly Come Dancing judge who was controversially replaced by Alesha Dixon in 2009, is in talks with the BBC to return to the highly rated dancing talent show.

Since Simon Cowell poached Alesha Dixon to join him on the Britain’s Got Talent panel alongside David Walliams and Amanda Holden, there has been much speculation as to who will fill the empty seat on Strictly.

Sources have revealed that Arlene recently met with the BBC controller of entertainment Mark Linsey to figure out whether a return for the next series would be too "tricky" for either party.

Speaking to The Sun, insiders commented: "The idea of her returning to Strictly was discussed.  There is no offer on the table but Mark wanted to know where Arlene's head was on the whole thing.

"Neither were ruling anything in or out as it's a tricky one for both of them. Her departure was not without bad feeling and controversy, so you can understand her being cautious."

The source added: "Likewise, the BBC axed her for a reason so it could be that that chapter should remain closed."

Since Alesha’s departure there has been intense speculation on whether Arlene will reappear on the panel, and the former dancer has thanked fans for championing her, although she has admitted that she is struggling to cope with all the rumours.

If Arlene does not return, former Strictly professional Karen Hardy is a popular choice to join the judging panel, although Miranda Hart, Kara Tointon, Nancy Dell’Olio and Russell Grant have also had their names thrown in the ring.

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