Denzel Washington has entered talks for Shovel Ready.

The actor is eyeing a role in Warner Bros' adaptation of Adam Sternbergh's debut novel, Digital Spy said citing Deadline.

He will take on the role of a hired killer in a near-future where residents of a bombed-out New York City seek refuge in a digital fantasy world.

Washington is contracted to kill the daughter of a popular and zealous evangelist, but somehow winds up as her protector.

The actor was most recently seen in Flight and will star in the upcoming 2 Guns and The Equalizer.

Shovel Ready is yet to find a director or screenwriter.