Variety reports that Universal Pictures has set a deal with Robert Ludlum’s estate that gives them exclusive rights to the Jason Bourne character and first look at other Ludlum novels.

The move makes a lot of sense for Universal as the Bourne franchise has proven to be a big success and has become one of the studio’s biggest franchises. In fact, this deal locks in their right to move ahead with a fourth movie which actor Matt Damon and director Paul Greengrass have signed on for. The film is being prepped for a Summer 2010 release.

This deal also gives the studio the first option of Ludlum’s other works, many of which are being worked into movies right now, including The Matarese Circle, The Osterman Weekend, The Chancellor Manuscript and The Sigma Protocol.