Marvel Studios is "near a deal" for Mark Ruffalo to appear as the Hulk/Bruce Banner in 2017's "Thor: Ragnarok," as reported Thursday afternoon by Deadline. This follows after rumors surfaced earlier this week stating that a Hulk appearance was likely for the film, with Deadline stating "it's indeed happening."

RUMOR: "Thor: Ragnarok" to Introduce the Valkyries, Take a Dark Turn

Ruffalo previously appeared as Banner/Hulk in 2012's "Avengers" and this past summer's "Avengers: Age of Ultron," along with a cameo in 2013's "Iron Man 3." Both Hulk and Thor (Chris Hemsworth) are not expected to be a part of next year's "Captain America: Civil War," though nearly every other major "Avengers" character will be featured in the film.

Directed by Taika Waititi, "Thor: Ragnarok" is scheduled to open July 28, 2017.