Sources close to the production tell TMZ, “Idol” honchos reached out to Kanye recently about filling one of the open judging spots … and Kanye expressed interest.

But that doesn’t mean he’s on board — we’re told Yeezy is still unsure about accepting the gig.  The way it was put to us … “He’s on the fence,” because he’s not sure if “A.I.” is in his wheelhouse.

And there’s another big hang up — cash.  Informed sources tell TMZ … “Idol” would “at least match Mariah’s salary” — a cool $18 mil a year.

It looks like Nicki Minaj is either close to signing a deal or has signed one to become a judge, but we’re told producers may well add a 4th judge.  As we reported, the frontrunners are Keith Urban, Brad Paisley and Enrique Iglesias, but Kanye would clearly trump them all.

Calls to Kanye’s camp were not returned.