Ankur Pathak (MUMBAI MIRROR; January 21, 2014)

Vivek Oberoi who debuted in Bollywood with a well recieved turn as a small-time thug on the make, Chandu, in Ram Gopal Varma’s Company, is now the top contender to play headline grabbing outlaw Abu Salem.

The biopic will be produced by Kamaal R Khan, popularly known as KRK, who is in talks with the actor for the lead role. A source close to the actor revealed that he has read the script, and liked it as well. “He received the script a few days ago, and read it in one go itself. He’s loved the way Salem’s character has been etched and is likely to give a nod to the film.”

Mirror has also learnt that KRK has approached Sudhir Mishra to direct the film. When contacted, KRK, who said that he was in Dubai, confirmed the news. “It’s too early to comment, I haven’t signed Vivek yet, but I’ve sent him the script to which he replied saying he’s liked it very much. I hope things fall into place.”

And the director? “I’ve spoken to Sudhir Mishra and he’s likely to respond in a week’s time. By the end of the month, we will make an official announcement,” he said.