He's in the headlines at the moment for portraying legendary UK ski-jumper Eddie the Eagle in the film of the same name, but it seems young Taron Egerton could be reaching new heights with his next acting role as reports fly that he is being considered for the role of Han Solo in a new 'Star Wars' prequel. 

Taron EgertonTaron Egerton would like to play Han Solo

And why not? He's got the charm and more than enough boldness to play the 'Star Wars' hero, who was originally (and recently in 'The Force Awakens') played by Harrison Ford. It seems the idea of such a major part has put a smile on Egerton's face.

'This is something I'm aware of', Egerton told HeyUGuys on the blue carpet at the London premiere of 'Eddie The Eagle' yesterday (March 17th 2016). 'Of course, it's very flattering. I would like to [play him] as much as anyone. It's Han Solo, right?'

It's not clear whether or not the rumours circulating on the internet have made him aware, or if he's aware because casting directors have genuinely got in touch with him about it, but we'll no doubt find out in the coming months.

More: The actors in the running to play Han Solo

Reports suggest that the 26-year-old is vying for the part with 'Transformers: Age of Extinction' star Jack Reynor and 'Hail, Caesar!' actor Alden Ehrenreich, with previous suggestions also including Miles Teller and Ansel Elgort - all of whom were among around 2,500 applicants.

Disney and Lucasfilm are set to release this so-called as-yet-untitled 'prequel' in 2018 with Christopher Miller and Phil Lord as directors. It will chronicle the life of Han Solo before he met Luke Skywalker in 'Episode IV: A New Hope'.

The next spin-off Star Wars movie, 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story', will be released at the end of this year, with the follow-up to 'The Force Awakens' currently filming for release next year.