Winstone is rumoured to be playing Indiana's sidekick

The British performer, best known for his tough guy roles in films like Sexy Beast and The Departed, is considering the offer, his agent has confirmed.

Although there is no official word on the role, reports have indicated he will play Dr Jones's sidekick.

Harrison Ford returns as the lead in the fourth instalment, with Cate Blanchett touted to star opposite him. The film is due to open in May 2008.

Beowulf lead

Raiders of the Lost Ark, the 1981 film which introduced the adventuring archaeologist, spawned two feature film sequels and a TV series.

The fourth film has been in development for more than 10 years, with director Steven Spielberg and producer George Lucas only approving a script at the end of 2006.

While the plot is a closely guarded secret, Lucas has said it will be a "character piece", while 64-year-old Ford insisted it would have "the same physical action" as the rest of the films.