Marcus Collins

Marcus Collins

Marcus Collins is in talks to star in 'Celebrity Big Brother'.

The former 'X Factor' star - who was runner-up to Little Mix in 2011 - is in last-minute negotiations to appear on the programme, which returns to TV next week.

Channel 5 bosses are said to be keen to land Marcus so he can share gossip about both the talent show and its rival 'Strictly Come Dancing', on which his boyfriend Robin Windsor is one of the professional dancers.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "Marcus would be a great signing if 'CBB' can make it happen.

"He knows all about what really goes on when you appear on 'The X Factor' and also dates Robin, who is a big name in 'Strictly' circles."

If Marcus does sign up for the show, he could find himself living alongside the likes of East 17's Brian Harvey, US gossip blogger Perez Hilton, controversial former 'Apprentice' star Katie Hopkins, 90s pop hunk Kavana, playboy Calum Best, TV presenter Keith Chegwin and former 'Baywatch' actor Jeremy Jackson.

It was recently revealed Jeremy has signed a huge £100,000 deal to appear on the show.

A source said: "Jeremy brings with him star power from his days on 'Baywatch' but has also had a complicated life since then and is sure to be a fascinating housemate.

The 34-year-old actor is renowned for his troubled personal life after he was arrested in 2000 for manufacturing methamphetamines.

He has also admitted to an addiction to steroids in the past and has been to rehab five times.

The star - who has been clean since 2000 - was also involved in a scuffle with former 'Celebrity Big Brother' contestant Jasmine Waltz in July this year after she allegedly hit him over the head with a vodka bottle during a party at Paris Hilton's Malibu home.

The source added: "Jeremy is hoping his criminal past won't affect him going into the house.

"But if there is an issue, bosses have told him they want him for the summer series instead."