Vulture reports that Brad Bird (Ratatouille) has has now entered the final negotiations with Paramount Pictures to direct Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible IV.

A source who is close to the deal says the only real sticking point is Bird's salary.

Since animated projects take three years of work, Bird gets paid a lot more money. Also, factor in that he has won two Oscars and that could also raise the amount of money he asks for. Since, Mission: Impossible IV will take less time, Paramount hopes Bird will reduce his asking price.

We will you keep posted as these negotiations go forward.