Russell Crowe is being touted to star as Sherlock Holmes in a new movie based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's legendary crime novels.

The Gladiator star is an unusual choice for the role - but Hollywood bosses intend the new movie to "focus more on Holmes' physical attributes".

A source tells British newspaper the Daily Express, "Unlike previous films this one is going to focus more on Holmes' physical attributes, including his talent for bare-knuckle and sword fighting, which were both mentioned in the original books.

"Russell is the favourite for the role as it's felt he'll give the character the action-man-like qualities the part is going to require. He's also proved in past films that he can pull off a convincing British accent.

"It's hoped the new story will retain the traditional flavour of the original books and it will be made in participation with the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle estate."