Little-known actress Dakota Johnson may star in 'Fifty Shades of Grey'.

The 23-year-old actress-turned-model - who shared a love scene with Justin Timberlake in 'The Social Network' - has emerged as a top contender to play Anastasia Steele in Sam Taylor-Johnson's movie adaptation of E.L. James' erotic novel, according to The Wrap.

Johnson is the daughter of veteran actor Don Johnson, best known for TV shows 'Miami Vice' and 'Nash Bridges', and actress Melanie Griffith.

It's thought producers are looking for a young, up-and-coming actress to play the role of virginal Anastasia, who embarks on a kinky sexual relationship with her S&M-loving boss, Christian Grey.

The filmmakers aren't expected to cast the male lead until they nail down a starlet for the female lead.

Johnson has previously had small roles in '21 Jump Street', 'The Five-Year Engagement' and 'Beastly'.

Director Sam Taylor-Johnson's actor husband Aaron Taylor-Johnson recently revealed she has ''wicked vision'' for the film, but insisted he would not play Christian Grey.

He told BANG Showbiz: ''I'm super happy for her and I think she's got wicked artistic vision on it.

''I know, and Sam knows, that I'm definitely not Christian Grey and that film is all about casting. It's just a really nice break for me to step back and support her for a while. I think she's super talented I'd love to work with her again no questions asked but this isn't the one.''

'Fifty Shades of Grey' will be produced by Universal for release in August 2014.