Simon Cowell feels ''snubbed'' by Leona Lewis after she quit his record label.

The 'Bleeding Love' hitmaker's departure from Syco/Sony has come as a shock to the music mogul - who discovered Leona on 'The X Factor' in 2006 and guided her to stardom - as she brokered her new multi-year deal with Island Records behind his back.

A source told The Sun newspaper: ''Simon assumed Leona would remain a part of the Sony family long-term -- leaving Syco but moving on to another section of the label.

''She negotiated the deal behind Simon's back despite knowing he wanted her to stay.

''It's a real blow and Simon feels snubbed.''

However, Simon put on a public show of support yesterday (03.06.14) as Leona's new record deal was announced, and praised the 29-year-old songbird for helping put 'The X Factor' ''on the map''.

He wrote on Twitter: ''Congratulations Leona. We had 7 great years together and now wish you all the best for the future. You put X Factor on the map. X (sic)''

Leona said in a statement yesterday: ''After seven incredible years at Sony I feel honoured to be given the opportunity to sign to perhaps the most iconic label of all, Island Records.

''To me Island has always been a label where artists can really flourish and are encouraged to express themselves. Island stands for quality music and signing with such a legendary label is really like a dream come true for me. I can't wait to start making music with my new team.''