Los Angeles, May 22 (IANS): Actor Matthew McConaughey is reportedly targeted by Marvel Comics to play the villain, Norman Osborn aka Green Goblin, in the upcoming rebooted 'Spider-Man' franchise.

According to Point of Geeks website, the 45-year-old is in "basic talks" with the studio, reports aceshowbiz.com

McConaughey previously confirmed he had been eyed by both Marvel and Warner Bros to star in superhero movies.

“I've read some Marvel and DC scripts and I've talked about working with them on some scripts, none of which I'll share with with you what they are - or were. Yeah, I've circled some of those. Nothing has been right for me yet. But I'm sure open to it," he said.

According to the website, it's not surprising for Marvel to target such an A-list actor as Norman Osborn character's overall prominence in the comics has risen over the past decade.

While it is unclear to what extent Sony and Marvel intend to include Norman Osborn in Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in the future, in recent years the villain character has been crucial as an "anti-hero" in the comics.

"Spider-Man" reboot is scheduled for a 2017 release. Previously, Asa Butterfield, Nat Wolff, Tom Holland, Timothee Chalamet and Liam James were reportedly some of the candidates to take the role of Peter Parker.