Quote:Both insiders said the deal is complete but has not yet been signed.

Another insider close to the show denied that a deal was in place.

Others disagreed. The $20 million was apparently the base minimum for Lopez, and after tough negotations with Fox, ended up just above that number.

It's a considerable raise from the $12 million she reportedly raked in for handling judge duties last season.

http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/08/01/idUS64617671220110801

Quote:Lopez, who unlike Tyler refused to sign a multi-year contract last year, played coy about her plans for a second season all summer.

Quote:While J.Lo negotiates the finishing touches of a deal, said to be worth up to $20 million, to return to "Idol" for another season, sources say leaks about the nature of the talks have made her fellow judges restless.

Aerosmith frontman Tyler is already tied into a two-year deal worth about $10 million a year, while Randy Jackson has said he's committed to coming back to the show.

..."Steven is halfway through a two-year deal, and his management has asked for more money," the source said. "They argue he was just as sensational and as popular on the panel as Jennifer. But, on the other side, show bosses argue he's tied into a deal and has to stick to it. However, it's hoped they can come to a compromise to keep Steven happy, because the producers love him."

Another source told us that while the money deal with J.Lo has been agreed, the final negotiations center around scheduling her "Idol" appearances around her other TV and movie commitments.