The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is set to introduce the X-Men into its expansive narrative, with Thunderbolts director Jake Schreier reportedly in early discussions to helm the project. According to Deadline, Schreier is at the top of Marvel Studios' list to direct the upcoming X-Men film, although the details of the negotiations are still under wraps.

The script for this eagerly anticipated film is penned by Michael Lesslie, known for his work on The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige will also serve as a producer. Key details such as the cast, release date, and its integration into the broader MCU remain closely guarded secrets.

The X-Men's presence in the MCU will be solidified with Avengers: Doomsday, as evidenced by the recent cast reveal featuring veteran X-Men actors like Kelsey Grammer, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Alan Cumming, Rebecca Romijn, and James Marsden. Grammer, who portrayed Beast in the Fox X-Men franchise, made his MCU debut in The Marvels' post-credits scene. Stewart played Charles Xavier/Professor X in the X-Men films and appeared in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness as part of the Illuminati. McKellen, who played Magneto, along with Cumming (Nightcrawler), Romijn (Mystique), and Marsden (Cyclops), are yet to make their MCU debuts, sparking speculation that Avengers: Doomsday might be an Avengers vs. X-Men crossover.

Marvel has been actively working on bringing the X-Men into the MCU, with Kevin Feige promising their introduction in "the next few movies." THR reported that Ryan Reynolds has been advocating for a Deadpool-meets-X-Men film. While no official X-Men movie has been slated yet, given the MCU's pace, fans won't have to wait long to see these beloved characters in action.

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View 12 ImagesMeanwhile, Schreier's recent directorial venture, Thunderbolts, has enjoyed a successful opening, grossing $173,009,775 globally and receiving an 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with our review giving it a 7/10.

As we await further updates on Schreier's potential involvement with the X-Men project, fans can enjoy discussions around a rumored Nightcrawler/Mister Fantastic confrontation in Avengers: Doomsday, a tease leaked by Alan Cumming.