Back in the summer of 2005, there were a lot of names being mentioned for Pierce Brosnan’s replacement in the James Bond franchise. Many had their money on Clive Owen, but the producers ultimately went in a different, more interesting direction. They chose Daniel Craig, a blond actor who ended up delivering the best “reset” in the history of the franchise.

I bring up this history because at the time of the Daniel Craig announcement, Angelina Jolie’s name kept coming up to play the character Vesper Lynd. I have no idea if it was just wishful thinking from some tabloids, or if Angelina was offered the role and had to refuse because she was pregnant with Shiloh. Or if Eva Green was always going to play Vesper. In any case, it’s a rumor that has come up again.

The Insider is reporting that Angelina may be interested in playing a reoccurring character in the upcoming Bond films, and that she’s met with Bond producers to discuss the franchise.

Angelina Jolie has been interested in being involved with Bond, James Bond, for quite some time.

She came THIS CLOSE to signing on to Casino Royale with Daniel Craig — but dropped out of negotiations due to scheduling and her pregnancy at the time.

Our source tells us Mrs. Pitt met with Bond producers over the weekend, expressing her interest in joining the franchise. The only hitch, Angelina would be a reoccurring character, instead of just appearing in one movie.

With her Tomb Raider franchise dead, and being killed off in Wanted — Angie seeks a solid financial property to revisit every few years. An easy payday indeed! Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli are very eager to have Angie on board. But, will they pay what she’s asking?

[From The Insider]

Shocking, I know, but I bet Angelina would be great in a Bond film. Especially if they give her a character where she can kick some ass, like Halle Berry did in Die Another Day.

Angelina and Daniel Craig have worked together before, in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (the first one). Allegedly, they got along well together, and Angelina even gave a quote about Daniel some years ago saying that he was one of her best on-screen kisses.

Still, I’m not sure about this report. It’s just a rumor, and rumors can be manufactured. Even though it would make a certain amount of sense, I suspect this gossip was put out there to create just another chapter to the Angelina vs. Aniston stuff, considering Jennifer recently said in an interview that she would love to play a Bond girl.

Here’s Angelina on the set of her upcoming spy thriller ‘Salt’ in New York City on March 13th. Images thanks to WENN .