Spider-Man has netted his leading lady - director Sam Raimi has persuaded Kirsten Dunst to sign up for the fourth installment of the web-slinging superhero franchise.

Dunst's return to the role of Mary Jane-Watson was thrown into doubt after Raimi told reporters the actress was still pondering whether to rejoin the cast.

But it has been confirmed the 26-year-old will reunite with Tobey Maguire - who had already agreed a deal to appear in the fourth and fifth movies.

Now, film bosses are left with just one more challenge - finding the perfect villain.

Producer Todd Black tells MTV.co.uk, "We're just coming up with who the villain's going to be now. We'll be shooting in New York again. Trust me - people will appreciate who we pick, because it'll be a big part of New York."

The movie is slated for a 2011 release.