The Girls Aloud singer - who has been left "devastated" by claims Ashley slept with three women during their relationship - has been advised by her legal team that she could receive the impressive sum if she decides to call time on their marriage.

A source said: "She has taken advice on divorce and it is now a very viable option. She would be looking at about £4 million."

Cheryl initially vowed to stand by the Chelsea player following revelations he slept with hairdresser Aimee Walton after a drunken night out in London last December, saying she didn't believe the claims.

It was later revealed Ashley offered Aimee money for an abortion following a pregnancy scare.

Two more women then came forward saying Ashley had paid them to keep quiet after bedding them.

A source said: "Cheryl now knows he has slept with other girls. That is no longer in question and she won't be pretending he's innocent again. "I can't see her taking him back. He's begging like a dog - and that is how she sees him."

Earlier this week, Cheryl left the couple's marital home and is currently in hiding as she considers the future of her marriage.