Mission: Impossible 5 has lined up another A-list cast member to join its ensemble, with Alec Baldwin currently in talks with Paramount.

According to Deadline, the studio has him earmarked for the role of the head of the CIA, although no deal has been struck as yet.

Meanwhile, Jessica Chastain has reportedly turned down the opportunity to take the female lead, with the studio now turning to alternative targets.

Rebecca Ferguson, star of TV’s The White Queen is thought to be top of the list to replace her in the role, which will be to play some sort of assassin.

Tom Cruise will of course be returning to star as Ethan Hunt, while Chris McQuarrie will be occupying the director’s chair. Mission: Impossible 5 will open in the UK on 26 December 2015.