A person close to Minaj said the entertainer has been in talks to judge the Fox TV competition and that a deal is in works. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss.
If Minaj signs on, she would join Mariah Carey as a judge on "Idol," which returns in January. Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez announced their exits from the show last month.
Minaj -- known for her colorful hairstyles, wardrobe and antics -- is best known for hits like "Super Bass" and "Starships."