Gerard Butler for The Professionals movie?

'The Professionals' is to be made into a film.

The British 1970s action-crime series - which followed the missions of cops Bodie and Toyle - will be brought back to life on the big screen with Gerard Butler and Liam Neeson reportedly being considered for the main roles.

A director is yet to be announced but Jason Statham and Gary Oldman have also been rumoured for the cast.

Film company Lionsgate acquired the rights to the series - which ran on ITV1 for five seasons from 1978 to 1983 - and hopes to make a Hollywood-style movie with 'Casino Royale' and 'Quantum of Solace' executive producer Callum McDougall on board.

Set in the modern day, it will tell the story of how the detectives are brought together again by C15 boss Cowley.

The company's chief executive Zygi Kamasa said: "This production will combine the wit and fast paced action of the original TV series but also completely reinvent it for a new, modern audience and we're really looking forward to working with talented producers Callum and Richard (Whelan) on the film."

He added that he was excited about making the movie because he used to watch the programme and believes it will be a big hit in cinemas.

Zygi revealed: "I was a big fan. We all grew up with it in the 70s so the idea of bringing it back for the big screen is perfect. There aren't many British TV shows from 30 years ago that you think could work today, but this is one of them."