Egged on by Jennifer Lopez‘ contract, American Idol judge Steven Tyler has asked for a pay rise if the producers want him to continue as a judge on the reality show, sources report.

Rumors are that Lopez’ contract made her $20 million which is more than twice her current salary. On this, a source told a newspaper, “Jennifer’s management is close to brokering her a huge deal to come back to the panel for at least one more season, but the side effect is that it means her fellow judges also want more money,” a source told the New York Post.

“Steven is halfway through a two-year deal, and his management has asked for more money. They argue he was just as sensational and as popular on the panel as Jennifer.

“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.”

In related news, Nigel Lythoge, an American Idol producer has described Tyler as “the sweetest of souls” adding that he is “really grateful for the person [Steven] is.”