Mark Schwahn is in talks to write the script for the CW's new Melrose Place incarnation, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The One Tree Hill creator emerged as a top candidate to write the project shortly after the network and CBS Paramount TV announced in late October that they are planning a contemporary take on Beverly Hills, 90210 spinoff.

Because of Schwahn's commitment to One Tree Hill, a deal for "Melrose" is taking longer to make.

Schwahn signed a two-year overall deal with CBS Par in early October, but it does not start until June. Until then, he is under a pact at Warner Bros. TV, where he runs "Hill." His agreement with WBTV also calls for him to continue as executive producer and showrunner on "Hill" if the series is picked up for a seventh season next fall.