Collider reports that Malek is in final negotiations for the part, with his newly enhanced status as an Oscar-winner a factor.
Fresh from his Academy Award win for Bohemian Rhapsody, Rami Malek is set to sign up as the lead villain in Bond 25, the much-delayed new 007 film that is due to be Daniel Craig’s last outing in the role.
It is also thought that Boyle clashed with producers over his plan to cast Cold War star Tomasz Kot as the lead villain.
Producers are also reported to be attempting to persuade another Oscar winner, Lupita Nyong’o, to join the film.