'Man of Steel 2' Casting Rumors and Release Date: Will Ryan Gosling Play Batman?

Descriptions recently surfaced of what Warner Bros. execs were looking for in a new Batman, set to appear in the 2015 Superman sequel "Man of Steel 2," and now reports are getting specific about just who is in the running for the coveted role.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, producers are looking for an established actor in his late 30s or 40s to take on the part, previously held by Christian Bale.

The site is now revealing that actor Josh Brolin, who recently starred in the Warner Bros. action flick "Gangster Squad" is rumored to be the studio's current number one choice.

Following Brolin is his "Gangster Squad" co-star, actor and universal sex symbol Ryan Gosling. Though there's no doubt Gosling could handle the role, THR speculates that at 32, he may be too young for "Man of Steel's" Batman, who is described to appear not as his young superhero self, but as a seasoned powerful professional.

Rounding out the rumored top three is "True Blood" star Joe Manganiello, who sources say was even initially considered for the role of Superman before execs decided to go with Brit Henry Cavill.

While THR insists that these rumors are backed by several inside sources, studio reps said that the casting process has yet to begin and no decisions have been made.

With the movie set for release some time in 2015, the cast is likely to be confirmed within the month, according to THR.

"Man of Steel 2" is highly anticipated among audiences, who were thrilled when Director Zack Snyder announced at Comic Con that Batman would appear in the film.

"I'm so excited to begin working again with Henry Cavill in the world we created, and I can't wait to expand the DC Universe in this next chapter," he said. "Let's face it, it's beyond mythological to have Superman and Batman facing off, since they are the greatest superheroes in the world."