"The Winter Soldier" Helmers Eyed For "The Gray Man"

Sony Pictures has optioned the film rights to author Mark Greaney's novel "The Gray Man" says  Variety.

The first of a four-part book series, the story follows a CIA operative-turned-assassin looks to evade mysterious forces as he tries to save the lives of the daughters who don't know he exists.

The studio wants "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" helmers Joe Russo and Anthony Russo to write the adapted script and direct. Much like 'Winter Soldier,' the plan is to make a 1970s style espionage thriller but with an otherwise contemporary story.

Joe Roth and Palak Patel will  produce the film which Sony hopes to turn into a potential franchise. The studio has also optioned the three follow-up books.

New Regency Enterprises previously held the movie rights.