Suicide Squad 2 has finally found a director

The lengthy search for someone to helm the DC sequel has seen both Mel Gibson and Jaume Collet-Serra as top contenders

Following the news that David Ayer wouldn't be returning to direct the sequel to his Suicide Squad, the hunt's been on for somebody to fill the role.

Plenty of names have been thrown around, with both The Shallows' Jaume Collet-Serra and Mel Gibson approached before they moved on to other projects, but Variety has now reported someone's finally landed the job: Gavin O'Connor.

The Accountant director is in talks to write and direct Suicide Squad 2, which is apparently a top priority for Warner Bros., who are keen to start production next year.

Ayer himself is still busy working with Margot Robbie on Gotham City Sirens, while both Robbie and Jared Leto are gearing up for a Harley Quinn-Joker movie. All in all, Warner Bros. are keen to milk as much as possible out of the Suicide Squad brand.

Despite negative reviews and a major drop-off in ticket sales after its first week, Suicide Squad still managed an impressive $745 million worldwide.

Meanwhile, Warner Bros. is also developing a sequel to The Accountant, with both O'Connor set to return to direct and Ben Affleck back to star.

Suicide Squad 2 is currently set for release in 2019.

Follow Independent Culture on Facebook for all the latest on Film, TV, Music, and more.