Ryan Gosling and Josh Brolin 'in the running' to play Batman in Man of Steel sequel

Josh Brolin and Ryan Gosling are reported to be in the running to play Batman in the Man of Steel sequel (Getty Images)

Ryan Gosling, Josh Brolin and Joe Manganiello are the biggest names on a reported early shortlist of those being considered to play Batman in the Man of Steel sequel.

Director Zack Snyder revealed at a comic convention in San Diego last month that both Batman and Superman will meet in the film’s forthcoming sequel, rumoured to be being called Superman vs Batman.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Snyder is looking to cast an actor in his late 30s or early 40s to play Batman. Casting notes say the actor will need to look “established and rugged”.

Sources claim Josh Brolin, 46, is the current frontrunner to play the superhero above Gosling, 32, and True Blood’s Manganiello, 36.

However, other industry sources have rubbished rumours as casting for the film is yet to begin.

Two sources claimed Brolin, who has starred in True Grit and Milk, was the frontrunner at this early stage, with his Gangster Squad co-star Gosling in second place.

Manganiello is also said to be on the longlist as Synder considered him for the role of Superman in Man of Steel before choosing Henry Cavill, due to the actor’s busy schedule.

British actors Richard Armitage, 41 and Matthew Goode, 35, are also rumoured to be in the running to play Batman, along with Pacific Rim’s Max Martini, 43.

Production on the sequel is due to start next year for a 2015 release.