Could this be the New Freddy?

Samuel Bayer's "A Nightmare on Elm Street" is gearing up for production and rumors have begun to swirl on who would be playing the nightmare killer Freddy Krueger. One rumor has conflicting reports about the casting, but if it happens, it seems like the perfect choice.

Latino Review are reporting that Jackie Earle Haley is up for the role of Freddy Krueger. Haley can be seen this year in the upcoming "Watchmen" and "Shutter Island" films and was nominated for a Golden Globe for his eerie performance in 2007's Little Children. Haley first and fore most has the look and vibe that would for a great replacement to the legendary Robert Englund.

The guys over at Bloody Disgusting asked producer Brad Fuller if there was any truth to the rumors that Haley would infact be the next Krueger. Fuller flat out denied the scoop. He said, "I can absolutely deny [this rumor]. We have not chosen a Freddy Krueger we're not even negotiating with anyone yet." Well for one, there is no reason why Fuller would confirm the rumor at this point, even if it were true. He can't let the cat out of the bag before things are a bit more finalized. Haley has also been offered a TV role on "Human Target" which is being developed by the WB. No doubt this offer is playing a part in keeping things hush hush for now regarding the casting.

For now, this scoop is a mere rumor, but it is not too far off to think that Haley has been offered the role and we will be hearing a more finalized report shortly. "A Nightmare on Elm Street" is set to start shooting in April and is targeting a early 2010 release date.

What say you? Is Jackie Earle Haley the right guy for Freddy? Who would you have play him? Are you one of the holdouts that think Englund should return? Strikeback...