Help on offer for Britney

Rapper-producer Timbaland, who has crafted hits for Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado, wants to help Britney Spears reclaim her career.

"I feel her pain, it really bothers me," the 34-year-old told Entertainment Weekly.

Timbaland says he invited Timberlake, his "best friend" and Spears' ex-boyfriend, to help the troubled singer.

Last month, Spears, 25, checked into a Malibu drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre, capping a week of bizarre behaviour.

"I just want to hold her hand," Timbaland says. "I want her to be in my camp, to be around Justin. I need Justin to talk to her. Help her, please!"