Universal Pictures has tapped Tony Gilroy to write a treatment for THE BOURNE LEGACY, the fourth installment in the popular Jason Bourne series, reports VARIETY. Gilroy, the writer of all the Bourne films, is also penning the franchise bible, so that possible spin-offs can be made.

Matt Damon said he wouldn't return to play Bourne unless director Paul Greengrass does as well. Frank Marshall and Pat Crowley will return as producers. Captivate Entertainment's Jeffrey Weiner and Ben Smith are also producing.

THE BOURNE LEGACY is the title of a Bourne book, written by Eric Lustabader for Robert Ludlum, yet the film will not be based on it.

Universal wants to have the new film ready for 2012.