Kanye West reportedly wants to attend Sean 'Diddy' Combs' criminal trial in New York to publicly support the embattled music mogul

An insider "close to Combs" told the network: "Ye has been in touch with Christian and would like to attend the trial with the family to show his support."

Combs' federal trial, which includes serious charges against the 55-year-old such as sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution, has so far featured appearances in court from several members of Combs' family, including his sons.

Prosecutors are expected to conclude their case next week, paving the way for the defence to begin calling witnesses - a point at which Kanye may make an appearance.

Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges and has denied all allegations of misconduct.

More than 60 civil suits have also been filed against Combs alleging sexual assault or other abuses on top of his criminal trial.

The source also confirmed to CNN Christian and Kanye are currently collaborating on new music.

They previously worked together on a track released in March, which included audio of a jailhouse phone call between West and Combs.

The track also featured vocals from Kanye's daughter with Kim Kardashian.

Scandal-plagued Kanye, who has been widely criticised in recent years for repeated antisemitic remarks and inflammatory behaviour, is one of the few public figures to voice support for Combs.

Ahead of his fellow rapper's trial, he posted messages on social media advocating for Combs' release.

In February, West sparked further backlash after he promoted and sold T-shirts emblazoned with swastikas - an incident he publicised in a Super Bowl advertisement.

Neither Combs nor Christian responded to CNN's request for comment.