Daniel Craig has reportedly been offered a massive $150m to appear in two more James Bond films.

This is despite the Chester-born actor saying he would rather ‘slit his wrists’ than suit up as 007 one more time.

Sony Pictures are said to ‘desperate’ for Craig to follow on from 2015’s Spectre, which was his fourth movie in the famous role.

Former Upton-by-Chester High School student Tom Hughes has been tipped as potential replacement if the 48-year-old chooses to move on.

Other names in the frame include Idris Elba, Tom Hiddleston and Aidan Turner.

Tom Hughes pictured at the premiere screening of ITV's Victoria earlier this month
Tom Hughes pictured at the premiere screening of ITV's Victoria earlier this month

But according to reports on US website Radaronline.com, Craig is the man the film’s bosses want.

A source said: “He has played a genius hand.

“Everyone knows how much executives adore him, and the idea of losing him at such a crucial time in the franchise isn’t an option as far as all the studio honchos are concerned.

“The studio is desperate to secure the actor’s services while they phase in a younger long-term successor.

“Daniel’s the key for a seamless, safe transition as far as Sony and Bond bosses are concerned and they’re prepared to pay a king’s ransom to make it happen.”

The studio’s plan is for the 48-year-old to film two films almost back to back, before a younger star is brought in.

Actor Daniel Craig steps out of a sports car during the shooting of Spectre

If true, that would take Craig to six Bond films, just one less than longest serving Bond Roger Moore.

Craig’s massive pay day would apparently involve the films being shot 'virtually back-to-back', but neither would be shot by Skyfall and Spectre director Sam Mendes, who has ruled himself out of returning.

The final decision rests with Bond producer Barbara Broccoli, who in July was reported to be focusing on the next two films, with a view to potentially rehiring Craig.

Of Tom Hughes, a source told the Mirror: “Barbara has told those around her how impressed she was with Tom in The Game.

“She thinks he is very talented and has been looking at all his shows to see if he is up for the role.”

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