In perhaps the best piece of superhero related news we’ve heard in a long time, Selma director Ava DuVernay is reportedly being courted by Marvel to direct an upcoming project. According to The Wrap, DuVernay is being eyed for one of the studio’s ‘diverse’ superhero movies, which include Black Panther and Captain Marvel.

Ava DuvernayDuVernay could become the newest recruit to the Marvel cinematic universe.

Black Panther, which is due in July 2018, is said to be the most likely option for DuVernay to direct. The film will be the first Marvel movie to be headlined by an an African American character as is based on the first black superhero in mainstream American comics.

More: 'Selma' Honoured At NAACP Image Awards After Oscars Snub

Chadwick Boseman has already been cast as T’Challa, the prince of Wakanda who assumes the Black Panther title following the death of his father. The character will make his first Marvel movie appearance in Captain America: Civil War next year.

The studio has reportedly been holding discussions with DuVernay to helm the project and while there are still other directors in contention, there is said to be mutual interest in having her join the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

If DuVernay was to land the gig she’d be the first woman as well as the first African American to direct a Marvel movie. Previously Patty Jenkins had been hired to direct Thor: The Dark World, but she was later replace by Alan Taylor due to creative differences. Jenkins is now directing the upcoming Wonder Woman movie over at Warner Bros.

More: After Oscars Snub, Ava DuVernay and David Oyelowo Announce 'Katrina'

As The Wrap notes, news of Marvel courting DuVernay comes at an interesting time, as the American Civil Liberties Union has just asked state and federal agencies to investigate Hollywood’s hiring practices at major studios, networks and talent agencies.

The ACLU is alleging there is rampant and intentional gender discrimination in Hollywood when it comes to recruiting and hiring female directors. On Tuesday letters were sent by the organisation to state and federal agencies calling for them to investigate Hollywood hiring practices and what they call the "use of discriminatory recruiting and screening practices that have the effect of shutting women out."