Benicio Del Toro to play villain in 'Star Wars: Episode VIII'?

Los Angeles: The forthcoming eighth instalment of the "Star War" franchise is reportedly eyeing actor Benicio Del Toro for the antagonist role.

Toro, 48, is said to have an offer, although whether a deal can be made remains unclear, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Even though "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" is still more than five months away, casting is beginning for the follow-up chapter, "Star Wars: Episode VIII".

The Lucasfilm/Disney movie will be directed by Rian Johnson.

Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isaac and John Boyega are expected to return for the movie, as are certain legacy actors (Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill).

The release date is May 26, 2017, while the upcoming seventh part "Star Wars: The Force Awakens", directed by J J Abrams, will hit theatres this December 18.