David Fincher wants Brad Pitt for 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Digital Spy said.

The Jules Vernes adaptation is yet to be given the go-ahead, but Variety reports that the Killing Them Softly actor is being courted for the project's starring role.

Sources have said that Disney has instituted a three-month hold while Fincher decides to move ahead with the film, which has not received the green light.

Pitt would play sailor and master harpooner Ned Land, who was portrayed by Kirk Douglas in the 1954 version of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.

Representatives for Pitt have said that he is not currently attached to the project.

The actor previously collaborated with Fincher on Se7en, Fight Club and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.