Actor approached to feature in the sequel to the comic caper Sanjay Dutt has been approached to be part of Partner's sequel. The actor is slated to essay a negative role in the flick but with comic shades.

Keen on Sanju

B-Town buzz is that director David Dhawan is keen to have him in the movie starring Salman Khan and Govinda. Sanju's casting is at the moment hush-hush as the director has yet to discuss it with producer Sohail Khan.

Says a source, "As it is David's idea, Sohail is yet unaware of the development. Both have to sit down and discuss the character."

It is well known that the director is fond of Dutt. After interacting with him for the pre-production of Rascals, he felt the star should be in Partner 2 as well.

Best bet

Continues the source, "He felt Sanjay would be the best bet to play a grey character in the comedy. He has concieved it as a powerful role that is wicked and funny at the same time.

Something like what Sanju essayed in Dhawan's movie Hum Kissi Se Kam Nahin a dreaded but good-hearted don."

A sequel to the comic caper was announced soon after the film's release in 2007 But things did not move ahead. Partner 2 is now slated to roll in 2011 after Dhawan finishes Rascals, a Dutt production.

David however maintains, "The scripting of Partner 2 is on. No casting has been done as yet. Sanjay is like a brother, I don't have to ask him. But I have to find something that justifies the character."

He adds, "Right now, I am busy with Rascals which goes on the floors on October 29. Partner 2 will only happen after May 2011."

What partner was about

Partner released in 2007 and was inspired by the 2005 Hollywood film Hitch starring Will Smith. Prem (Salman Khan) plays a love guru.

Bhaskar (Govinda) is his client who asks Prem for help in his love life. Bhaskar loves his boss Priya Jaisingh (Katrina Kaif) but is unable to express his love to her. Prem's girlfriend is Naina (Lara Dutta), a photo journalist.

Their Previous Collaborations

Sanjay Dutt has previously worked in David Dhawan flicks like Shaadi No 1, Ek Aur Ek Gyarah, Hum Kissi Se Kam Nahin, Jodi No 1 and Chal Mere Bhai.