EDDIE REDMAYNE has reportedly been offered the lead in “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.”

    The 33-year-old actor was the frontrunner to play Newt Scamander as of April, and is said to have received a formal offer from Warner Bros. after taking time to read the script.

    “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is based on the J.K. Rowling novel of the same name. The author is adapting the book for film, and sources told Variety Redmayne is “very happy” with the screenplay.

    The movie is set in the “Harry Potter” universe, but takes place roughly 70 years before the film series. The story follows Newt Scamander, the fictional author of one of Harry Potter’s textbooks, as he studies magical creatures.

    “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” will be split into at least three movies, with the first to debut Nov. 18, 2016. Additional release dates are set for 2018, 2020 and beyond, with “Harry Potter” director David Yates attached to helm the first film.

    Redmayne last appeared as Balem Abrasax in “Jupiter Ascending” with Mila Kunis and Channing Tatum. The actor will next portray real-life transgender artist Lili Elbe, born Einar Wegener, in “The Danish Girl” with Alicia Vikander.

    (SD-Agencies)