James Bond - Mcgregor 'In Negotiations For Bond Role'

Scottish hunk EWAN McGREGOR is allegedly in negotiations to take on the role of suave superspy JAMES BOND.

The troubled 21st Bond installment's release date has been postponed until 2006 to allow MGM bosses time to recruit a director and a replacement for departing 007 PIERCE BROSNAN.

But film insiders insist The TRAINSPOTTING star has beaten Bond wannabes COLIN FARRELL, HUGH JACKMAN, CLIVE OWEN, SEAN 'P DIDDY' COMBS and JUDE LAW to the role, because of his successful portrayals of heros and lotharios.

A source said talks are at an early stage, adding, "Ewan has a big advantage - he's already an international star who's proven himself in both romantic and action films."