MUMBAI: Even before the release of Barfi!, south actress Ileana D’Cruz has been signed for Rajkumar Santoshi’s next. She will feature opposite Shahid Kapoor in a romantic capacity. Tentatively titled Phata Poster Nikla Hero, it is expected to go on floors November and release next year. Producer Ramesh Taurani has confirmed that “we have signed Ileana for our film. She is perfect for the role. She is a brilliant actress. We have seen her work down south” but refused to divulge any more details.

According to Ramesh Taurani, the duo will make a fresh pair. “Shahid is our ghar ka hero; a fabulous dancer and a huge star. However, what is most interesting is the fact that we have signed up Ileana opposite Shahid. It’s a fresh pair,” he says.

Shahid, after spending the last few months reading scripts, is ready to get back in shooting mode. In the meanwhile, Ileana’s Bollywood debut, Barfi! is releasing on 14 September.

While Rajkumar Santoshi of the Ghayal, Andaz Apna Apna and Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani fame will be in the director’s chair, the movie will be produced by Ramesh Taurani’s Tips Films.