Daniel Craig is producers' 'first choice' to return as 007

Reigning 007 Daniel Craig is the producers' top choice to play James Bond in the next spy movie.

Callum McDougall, who has worked on nine Bond movies, told BBC Radio 4's Today program his fellow producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson are “absolutely” keen for the star to sign up for another Bond movie.

Actors Jamie Bell, Poldark star Aidan Turner and Luther actor Idris Elba have all been tipped as potential replacements for Craig, who has yet to commit to the next movie. He made his debut as Bond in 2006's Casino Royale, before returning to the role for Quantum of Solace in 2008, Skyfall in 2012, and last year's (15) Spectre.

When asked on Friday (30Sep16) who would be the next James Bond, McDougall replied: “I wish I knew. We’d love Daniel. We would love Daniel to return as Bond.

“Without any question he is absolutely Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson’s first choice and I know they are hoping for him to come back."

Host Nick Robinson questioned further McDougall, and asked: “If he signs (on) you’ll welcome him back?” To which the producer confirmed: “Absolutely.”

McDougall's comments come weeks after reports claimed Craig was reportedly offered a huge $150 million to continue his reign as the British spy.

However in May (16), it was claimed the actor has decided he is "done" with the franchise.

"Daniel is done - pure and simple - he told top brass at MGM after Spectre. They threw huge amounts of money at him, but it just wasn’t what he wanted," a movie source told Britain's Daily Mail newspaper.

"He had told people after shooting that this would be his final outing, but the film company still felt he could come around after Spectre if he was offered a money deal."