Steve Martin hosted the 2003 Oscars

The comic actor is expected to make a decision about the project shortly, after talks with movie studio MGM.

Martin, whose most recent film role was opposite Queen Latifah in Bringing Down The House, could step into the shoes originally filled by Peter Sellers.

Austin Powers' Mike Myers has previously been linked to the role.

The original Pink Panther film, released in 1964, saw Clouseau on the trail of a slippery jewel thief.

Ivan Reitman is producing the remake and is also expected to direct it. His previous directing credits include Evolution, Kindergarten Cop and Dave.

The original movies were written and directed by Blake Edwards.

The role of Clouseau has previously been played by Alan Arkin in 1968's Inspector Clouseau, and by Sir Roger Moore in the 1983 film Curse of the Pink Panther.