Idris Elba to star in adaptation of Paulo Coelho's 'The Alchemist'

Luther star Idris Elba is in talks to play the lead role in the much-talked about film adaptation of Paulo Coelho's bestselling novel The Alchemist. 

The Weinstein Company is also eyeing director Laurence Fishburne to helm the long-gestating project, reported Deadline.

The Alchemist centres on a young Spaniard who embarks on a quest to find a hidden treasure within the Egyptian pyramids.

No deals have closed yet, but this is said to be a passion project for both producer Harvey Weinstein and Fishburne. The production house is hoping to get this in front of cameras in 2016.

Paulo Coelho's book is something of a publishing sensation, having sold more than 65 million copies in 56 different languages. It reputedly holds the Guinness world record for most translated work by a living author.