Robbie Williams bidding war

Dec 16, 2008, 9:30 GMT

Robbie Williams has reportedly sparked a record label bidding war.

The 34-year-old singer - whose most recent album 'Rudebox', released in 2006, was panned by both critics and fans - is on the verge of a huge pop comeback and possible reunion with Take That, igniting the interest of several companies keen to sign him once his contract with EMI Music ends late next year.

A source said: "'Rudebox' was not Robbie's greatest work and things went very quiet for him afterwards. He went into rehab and has spent time getting his head together. But word is getting out his new album is sounding brilliant and the Take That reunion coverage has helped. His next deal could be a record-breaker."

Robbie, whose next LP is due for release on EMI in September 2009, could follow Madonna, U2 and Jay-Z and sign a mega-deal with concert promoters Live Nation.

The source added to Britain's The Sun newspaper: "Live Nation would be very keen. They could give Robbie a huge contract which would include his releases, live dates and all the extras that accompany that."

After leaving Take That in 1995, mainly due to his ongoing feud with frontman Gary Barlow, Robbie launched a hugely successful solo career.

His debut solo album 'Life Thru a Lens' included his biggest hit 'Angels', and was followed by a further six solo records.

Since the release of 'Rudebox', Robbie has been living in Los Angeles, where has developed an obsession with UFOs and decided to shun the celebrity lifestyle.