It seems as though John Malkovich may have hinted that he is indeed been asked to play The Vulture in Spider-Man 4.  In an interview on an Italian sports show of all things, Malkovich was asked about whether he had been approached to the play the villain and the production delay. BadTaste.it translated a summation of what was said:

“When conductor Simona Ventura asked him about his role of Vulture in the movie, he not only didn’t deny his involvement, but confirmed that he’s waiting for the final script to be sent to him, and that the movie has been delayed. He also hopes that shooting will begin as soon as possible.”

Malkovich was Raimi’s first choice to play Green Goblin, but the role went to his Shadow Of The Vampire co-star Willem Dafoe. I have to say I’m quite disappointed, and that I think it’s time for Raimi to hand over the reigns to someone else. Alvin Sargent is working on a new rewrite to please both Raimi and the studio. After the poor reception of the third film, do you think audiences want to see The Vulture? Which villain would you want to see?

-Brian

Source: http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=62262