Last week is was revealed that Harry Potter director David Yates was planning on direct a new version of Tarzan for Warner Bros. Things seem to be moving quickly, as the filmmaker is already looking at actors to play the title character, with Variety reporting that Alexander Skarsgard is the current frontrunner, with Samuel L. Jackson in talks for a supporting role.

Last week it was suggested that Henry Cavill and Charlie Hunnam were the top contenders for the role along with Skarsgard, although it seems the studio and director has now decided on the True Blood star. A formal offer has not been issued to the actor as of yet. Skarsgard’s 6’4″ frame and physique are believed to be factors that lead to the studio’s decision.

Variety says Skarsgard ‘would play John Clayton III, known around the world as the famous “ape man” Tarzan. Years after he’s re-assimilated into society, he’s asked by Queen Victoria to investigate the goings-on in the Congo. Tarzan teams with an ex-mercenary named George Washington Williams to save the Congo from a fierce warlord who controls a massive diamond mine.

‘Samuel L. Jackson is being eyed to play Williams, a Civil War veteran eager to redeem himself for his part in the massacre of Native Americans.’

It isn’t known when it might shoot.