Paul Mescal is reportedly in talks to play a young James Bond in the next film from the 007 franchise.

Movie bosses are said to be lining up two actors to play the spy, one older and one younger.

And rumours are now swirling that Paul, 27, could be in the running to take on the major film role, according to The Sun on Sunday.

Irish star Paul, who rose to fame in 2020 in BBC Three's romantic drama Normal People, told Digital Spy that year: 'Would I play Bond? Yeah?

'I don't know. If it ever came my way, we'd discuss it.'

MailOnline has contacted a representative for Paul for comment.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson was named the hot favourite to become the next James Bond in October.

Ever since Daniel Craig ditched the 007 role after five films and made his Bond swansong in 2021's No Time To Die, rumours have been rife over which debonair star will replace the icon.

An insider revealed to MailOnline that British Aaron actor, 33, was extremely close to landing the role, with Oppenheimer director Christopher Nolan, 53, looking likely to helm the next film in the franchise.

The insider said: 'Aaron Taylor-Johnson is currently the hot favourite to step into the iconic role, he's the first choice for Barbara Broccoli – he is the one to beat.'

They added of Christopher: 'He is extremely interested in doing something very different with the franchise. If he can get his way with producers, then he is all for it.'

It was previously reported that Christopher wanted to direct the next Bond film as a period piece set in the same as the original source material – something that director Quentin Tarantino had previously wanted to do with Casino Royale, but was turned down.