Chris Pine for Mud?

Chris Pine has entered negotiations for a leading role in coming-of-age drama 'Mud', directed by Jeff Nichols.

Chris Pine is in talks to star in 'Mud'.

The 'Star Trek' actor would be directed by Jeff Nichols in the coming-of-age drama about a teenage boy discovering his position in the world.

Aaron Ryder will produce the project, which will focus on the tale of two 14-year-olds who must help Chris' character Mud escape off an island in the Mississippi river.

However, he refused to confirm how far along the negotiations with Chris were, the Los Angeles Times reports.

The 30-year-old star is so far best known for his action roles, and has a number of projects coming up in the next couple of years.

As well as the eagerly anticipated 'Star Trek' sequel - starring all the original cast of the 2009 movie, based on the original 60s TV show - he is also set to star in 'This Means War' and 'Welcome to People' alongside Michelle Pfeiffer, Elizabeth Banks and Olivia Wilde.