Media tycoon Simon Cowell has a new project in the works - the American Idol boss reportedly plans to remake John Travolta's classic dance movie Saturday Night Fever.

Cowell is already said to have drawn up a list of actors to replace Travolta - with High School Musical star Zac Efron the frontrunner for the role of disco king Tony Manero. And the British mogul reportedly wants to draft super-producer Timbaland to rework the 1977 film's hit soundtrack, which was originally written and recorded by The Bee Gees.

Now Cowell is locked in talks with film producer Robert Stigwood, and is desperately trying to convince him to give up the rights to the screenplay.

A source tells Britain's The Sun, "Simon has been looking into buying the rights for years and opened discussions with Robert about the remake. The charm offensive has been in full swing and they made a breakthrough over the last couple of weeks. Robert was keen to get some assurances the original wouldn't be completely butchered before he agreed to the deal."

"Simon has been drawing up a list of people he wants to get involved. When that meets Robert's expectations, the contracts will be signed."

Image © Paramount Pictures

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)