The 35-year-old actor is the top choice for writer and director Akiva Goldsman to be cast in the supernatural drama based on Mark Helprin's 1983 novel of the same name alongside Jessica Brown Findlay, reported Contactmusic.
The film, which is set in both 19th century and contemporary times, tells the story of a dying young woman (Jessica) who falls in love with a thief (Colin) who breaks into her West Side Manhattan mansion.
However, if Colin turns down the role, studio Warner Bros has drawn up a short list of actors who could take his place including Benjamin Walker, Tom Hiddleston, Luke Evans, Aaron Johnson, Garrett Hedlund and Liam Hemsworth.
Russell Crowe and Will Smith are set to take on supporting roles with filming due to begin in New York on October 15. PTI CORR BB