The Ghostbusters sequel could soon have a new director - and a new cast of female Ghostbusters.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Paul Feig has emerged as the frontrunner to helm the long-rumoured sequel. It's further rumoured that the sequel could be a 'reboot' and feature a cast of female Ghostbusters, although with appearances from some of the old cast.

Feig's most recent films are comedies Bridesmaids and The Heat, both of which have been praised for their focus on strong female characters.

Ghostbusters 3 seemed as if it was about to get going earlier this year, but plans were affected by the death of original star Harold Ramis in February. He was set to have a role in the film.

The following month, Ivan Reitman - who directed the two original Ghostbusters film - backed out of the project, although the script by Gene Stupnitsky and Lee Eisenberg is said to have been revised since Ramis' death.

Dan Aykroyd has regularly stated his wish to appear in a sequel, and had written a script draft with Ramis. Aykroyd is likely to appear at some capacity if a third film is made, and it is possible Ernie Hudson will also return. However, co-star Bill Murray has frequently expressed doubts over the need for another film and is unlikely to return.