Cruz teaming up with Cohen?

Penélope Cruz may be Sacha Baron Cohen’s next co-star.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the actress is in final negotiations to join the cast of forthcoming comedy Grimsby.

Louis Leterrier is directing the film, which tells the story of a British spy, played by Mark Strong, forced to hide out in his hometown with the help of his “English football hooligan” brother, portrayed by Sacha.

Penélope is rumoured to be up for the role of a “philanthropic corporate leader”, who may not be all that she seems.

UK newspaper The Mirror reported last year the role will be the Ali G star’s “most vile and controversial” yet.

Sacha, who The Mirror claimed is basing his character on famous soccer pundit Roy Hodgson, is expected to trick unsuspecting members of the public, as he did in movies like Borat and Bruno.

Rebel Wilson, Gabourey Sidibe, Annabelle Wallis and Ian McShane have already been tapped for the Sony film, which will shoot in the UK and South Africa this summer.

Sacha, who wrote the script with Phil Johnston and Peter Baynham, is also producing with Nira Park.

Grimsby is slated for a 2015 release.

Penélope is meanwhile currently shooting Spanish drama Ma ma, directed by Julio Medem.

She was also recently announced as part of the cast of Spanish comedy drama La reina de España.

In addition to Grimsby, Sacha is also working on adventure fantasy Through the Looking Glass, directed by James Bobin.

The feature, co-starring Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter and Mia Wasikowska, is slated for release in 2016.