Jean-Claude Van Damme has signed up for a leading role in a new sci-fi film to be shot in Derby, UK.

The 50-year-old actor - who is nicknamed The Muscles from Brussels because of his illustrious career in action movies including 'Bloodsport' and 'Universal Soldier' - will spend in the Midlands to shoot movie 'UFO', where he plays a retired military advisor.

Dominic Burns will direct the project, and admits he is excited the Belgian actor will spend time in his home-city.

He said: "We heard he once visited the city to take part in some sort of martial arts display for about an hour but then headed off. He'll be here for a little longer this time."

He added the movie will be a mixture of, "'Independence Day' meets 'Monsters' told from the point of view of 'Signs'."

Sean Brosnan and Andrew Shimm are also set to star in the movie, which will be released in 2012.

Next year will be a busy one for Van Damme as he is also set to star in 'The Expendables 2' with Sylvester Stallone and Bruce Willis.