Matt Damon to star in new Bourne film

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Matt Damon to star in new Bourne film

Matt Damon is to return to the 'Bourne' franchise.

Following months of speculation, the 44-year-old actor has confirmed that he and director Paul Greengrass are to reunite for the new movie, which is set for release in 2016.

Responding to the speculation surrounding the film, Matt said: ''[We'll shoot it] next year. It'll be in 2016 when the movie will actually come out.''

He told E!: ''Paul Greengrass is going to do another one and that's all I ever said. I just needed him to say yes.''

However, the news was first hinted at by Matt's good friend Ben Affleck, 42, who was asked to compare their muscle tone in light of his physical transformation since accepting the role of Batman, to which he replied: ''Well, Matt's going to be doing a Bourne movie next fall when I've just completely lost any semblance of physical fitness...''

Jeremy Renner stepped in as new character Aaron Cross for 2012's 'The Bourne Legacy', while Matt had previously said he had no intention of returning to the part of Jason Bourne.

Meanwhile, Matt will also star in 'Downsizing', which will be directed by Alexander Payne, who co-wrote the social satire about a man shrinking himself.

However, The Hollywood Reporter claims Matt's decision to appear in 'Downsizing' has put him out of the running for the Zhang Yimou epic 'The Great Wall'.