The hunt still continues for Steve Carell's replacement, but EW is reporting that Boston Legal star James Spader is reportedly negotiating a deal to star in The Office next season.

Only the network isn't just looking to have Spader be the new Michael Scott (manager of Dunder Miflin's Scranton Branch).  They're actually looking at the possibility of Spader's character taking over as Dunder Miflin's CEO.

Let's backtrack for a moment.  Kathy Bates has guest starred as the CEO of Dunder Miflin in the past, but with season 2 of Harry's Law looming, Bates might exit The Office to free up her time for her own show.  Spader guest starred in last season's finale as a potential replacement for Michael Scott.  If Spader's character (Robert California) takes over as CEO, he would appear on the show weekly.  Apparently the plan is for him to act as the branch manager in the premiere episode for next season and then decide to go for the head honcho position.

But with Spader's character as the new CEO, that still leaves the position of branch manager open.  Who will The Office select as the ultimate Steve Carell replacement?  We'll just have to wait and see.

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