THE reunion with Take That may or may not happen. But Robbie's eighth solo studio album and the promotion and hype that go with it are certainly the next big thing for Burslem's finest.

Rudebox was Robbie's seventh studio album (10th overall). It was released in October 2006 to mixed reviews. Despite reaching the number one spot, sales were below what was expected.

In 2002, Robbie signed a record £80 million deal with EMI to produce four albums. Last year the singer led a revolt against the label in protest at its takeover by a private equity firm. He ended his strike in October last year.

Last month, it was confirmed Robbie had written songs for his new album with Guy Chambers and Mark Ronson.

Tim Clark, Robbie's manager, said the singer planned to begin recording this month and the album would be released later this year.

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