Barbara Streisand in talks for Gypsy remake

Barbara Streisand is in talks to star in a cinematic version of 1959 musical 'Gypsy'.

The Hollywood legend has entered into discussions with Stephen Sondheim and Arthur Laurents to play the part of Mama Rose in the film.

Arthur, who wrote the book for 'Gypsy' and directed a 2008 Broadway version starring Patti LuPone, denied rumours Oscar-winning actress Barbara would be directing the movie but would stay in front of the camera instead.

He told The New York Post: "Playing Rose is enough to make her happy."

Arthur added Streisand "loved" the idea of Tom Hanks playing her love interest and the manager of her two daughters Herbie.

The movie tells the tale of a pushy mother who favours one daughter over another, only to find the less favoured daughter is the one with more talent.

Bette Midler made the role famous in a 1993 TV movie, which also starred a young Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men).

Barbara's movie career has been relatively quiet for the last two decades, having only starred in four films since 1991 - although she can currently be seen in comedy 'Little Fockers' as hippy mother Roz Focker.