Penelope Cruz is to become the oldest ever Bond Girl - aged 40.
The brunette actress - who turns 40 next April - looks set to star in the as-yet untitled 24th Bond movie, which looks likely to be directed by 'Skyfall' helmer Sam Mendes, after holding lengthy discussions with producers.
A source close to the production of the forthcoming film said: "The producers have tried to get Penelope before, but she has never been available because of other commitments.
"The discussions have been going on for some time and they are working out the contract details now."
Cruz - who is pregnant with her second child with actor husband Javier Bardem, who played Raoul Silva in the suave spy's last outing, 'Skyfall' - will take over the oldest Bond Girl title from Honor Blackman, who was 39 when she played Pussy Galore in 1962's 'Goldfinger'.
The source is quoted by the Mail on Sunday newspaper as saying: "She got back into shape fast after the first baby and will no doubt regain her figure quickly this time.
"She'll be a great Bond girl. Bond girls are always brainy as well as sexy, and that's totally Penelope."
Tagged in Sam Mendes Penelope Cruz