Emma Watson in talks for `The Little Mermaid`?

London: Actress Emma Watson is reportedly being eyed up by director Sofia Coppola to play the lead role in the upcoming live-action movie `The Little Mermaid`. The 23-year-old `Harry Potter` star has previously worked with Coppola in `The Bling Ring`, reportedly.

"Sofia wants Emma, and the pair have such a respect for each other, it would be very surprising if they carry on without each other,"reportedly. "Movie companies Universal and Working Title want to move quickly on this so expect an announcement soon,"reportedly. Tim Burton is apparently working on the script for the film, which is likely to be a dark, adult take on the classic fairytale. The new live-action take on the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairytale will be developed by the Universal Pictures in conjunction with Working Title Films.