Michelle Keegan and Maya Jama are reportedly in contention for the coveted role of the next Bond Girl in the upcoming spy thriller, with filming set to commence later this year.

Speculation arose following reports this week that Aaron Taylor-Johnson, 33, has been offered the lead role of James Bond in the forthcoming movie. As every Bond film requires a compelling female counterpart, betting company Coral has named Michelle and Maya as top contenders for the iconic part. Maya Jama, the Love Island host from Bristol, has seen her odds dramatically slashed to 5-1.

Meanwhile, Michelle, renowned for her role in Corrie, has also seen her odds reduced to 4-5 and is reportedly eager to take on a significant film role.

John Hill from Coral commented, “Many punters believe Michelle Keegan will join Aaron Taylor-Johnson in the next Bond film as the female lead. The Fool Me Once star is now odds-on in our betting to be involved. But we have also seen some outside support for Maya Jama. The Love Island presenter has had her odds slashed in half to be the female lead,” as reported by the Mirror.

Although reports suggested that Aaron Taylor-Johnson had received a formal offer for the Bond role, these claims have been dismissed by sources. The BBC reported that there is “no truth in the rumours.”

Speculation mounts that Michelle could follow in the footsteps of iconic Bond Girls such as Ursula Andress, Michelle Yeoh, Halle Berry, and more recently, Lea Seydoux, who have all portrayed companions of the secret agent in the franchise.

According to Gambling.com, Michelle is among the favourites to land a role in the next Bond film, which will be the first since Daniel Craig’s departure. She is said to be behind Jodie Comer, known for her role in Killing Eve, in the odds. However, Michelle’s odds have risen significantly, with her recent performance in Netflix’s Fool Me Once boosting her chances.

Kaya Scodelario, 32, is listed as the third favourite for the role, with odds of 5/2. She is part of the cast of the newly launched series The Gentlemen on the streaming platform, with previous credits including Skins.

Reports also suggest that producers are keen on Denis Villeneuve directing the new films.