New York, Feb 9 : If rumours are to be believed, then entertainment manager and Madonna's friend, Guy Oseary, is the favourite to replace Simon Cowell in the next season of 'American Idol.'

"Guy has been in the music business since Madonna discovered him when he was 17, and he has a lot of the same experience as Simon," the New York Daily News quoted a Fox insider.

However, Oseary still has some hurdles to jump.

A source said: "Producers are worried that viewers in suburban areas won't know who Guy is. Simon has an incredible following, but the same can't really be said for Guy."

An insider close to the entertainment manager said that he'd be more than pleased to accept the offer.

"He was thrilled to hear that Fox was considering him. He thinks it would be great for his image. And it's great exposure to boot," the insider added.