Idris Elba is reportedly in negotiations to replace Will Smith in the Suicide Squad sequel, which is scripted and directed by Guardians of the Galaxy helmer James Gunn.

It is reported that the Luther star was the first and only choice for Gunn and the studio. Smith, who played Deadshot, left the project last week due to scheduling conflicts.

The film would mark Gunn's return to the director's chair after Disney sacked him from Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 3 last July when his old offensive tweets resurfaced on social media.

Suicide Squad 2 is slated to be released on August 6, 2021.