New leading lady for Bachchan Jr

Mumbai, June 8 -- She made an impressive debut with the Saif Ali Khan-starrer Cocktail (2012). But ever since, Diana Penty hasn't signed any other film. Now, we hear that she is set to bag Umesh Shukla's (of OMG: Oh My God!; 2012 fame) yet-untitled next starring Abhishek Bachchan. The film, produced by Bhushan Kumar of T- Series, goes on the floors in August.

"Bhushan, as well as Umesh, are keen on roping Diana in. She has been given the full narration of the script and has really liked the storyline but is yet to get back to the makers. In all likelihood, she will be confirmed to star opposite Abhishek," says an insider close to the film. "They are also keen on her because the pairing is fresh."

Till a few days ago, reports suggested that Diana was in the running to bag the female lead role in the Akshay Kumar-starrer, Thuppakki remake, but Sonakshi Sinha was roped in for the part. "Diana is choosy. She has been offered many films, some of which she has also liked, but she has turned them all down. But this time, things are going in the positive direction," adds the insider.

While Diana couldn't be reached for a comment, Bhushan says, "We are in touch with Diana, but are still in the process of finalising the female lead." Abhishek will start shooting for the film before Tarun Mansukhani's Dostana 2, around October.