The 23-year-old pop star only made his acting debut last year in Dunkirk, but could he really be getting ready to take on James Bond after Craig?

The incumbent, who turns 50 this year, will see his fifth and final 007 movie released in 2019 before the door will open for a new star.

According to Coral Styles’ odds of doing just that have cut significantly from 100-1 to 8-1 in just the last couple of days.

A spokesman said: “Punters feel Harry Styles is heading in one direction and that is to play the next James Bond, as they have been rushing in over the last couple of days to back the pop superstar to be named as the next 007.”

The main reason for the sudden rush appears to come following recent comments by a Christopher Nolan and Bond insider.

Spectre editor Lee Smith, who has also edited all of Bond director favourite Nolan’s films, backed Styles.

He pointed out how the young star’s connection to the Dunkirk director could help his chances if the filmmaker takes on a Bond film – especially as Nolan has been in talks with 007 producers.

Meanwhile Styles is tied with Idris Elba and Aidan Turner at 8-1, but ahead of them is Jack Huston at 5-1, James Norton at 4-1 and favourite Tom Hardy at 2-1.

Whoever replaces Craig won’t expect to see their first 007 movie hit cinema screens until at least 2022.

James Bond 25 will be released in UK cinemas in November 2019.