CELEBRITY Big Brother bosses may have busted the bank to get Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh, but they are ready to go bigger and bolder for the next series.

I can reveal ITV chiefs and show maker Initial are eyeing up Paul Gascoigne as a potential housemate for next year’s second run of their reboot.

ITV chiefs are willing to break the bank again to get Paul Gascoigne on Celebrity Big Brother after the public was wowed by Sharon Osbourne and Louis WalshCredit: Getty
They are also talking to a British pop star who is a worldwide smash.

A source said: “Bosses are full steam ahead planning this autumn’s civilian series but there’s also one eye on 2025’s celebrity series because the best names get booked up.

“It’s super-early days but names are being discussed, and candidates sounded out.

“Gazza is considered a top priority after the brilliant reception he received on Channel 4 reality show Scared Of The Dark last year, whether it be for this series or one down the line.

“But bosses are also talking to a British pop star who’s had hits worldwide.

“They’re a big name, instantly known and will surprise people.

“They know everyone was wowed by the inclusion of Sharon and Louis for series one and know they need big-hitters for season two.

“Everyone is really chuffed with how series one went but the intention is for two to be bigger, bolder and better than ever to keep the ball rolling.”

Series one of the reboot has now been streamed 18million times, with ITV’s approach being to embrace online audiences alongside terrestrial.

They made a special deal with reality TV queen Sharon — giving her a shorter stay and private bedroom — to ensure the line-up for CBB series one was tip-top.

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It paid off, with the former X Factor judge and her ex-sidekick Louis providing some of CBB’s best moments.

If Gazza’s gaffes in Scared Of The Dark are anything to go by, he could easily trump them.