ITV mulling possible acquisition of All3Media

Responding to press speculation, the broadcaster said in a brief statement that it was "actively exploring" a potential deal.

It provided no further detail, other than to note there was no certainty that a transaction would take place, nor what the terms might be.

All3Media, which also makes Midsomer Murders and Fleabag, is jointly owned by Warner Bros Discovery and Liberty Global and is thought to be valued at around £1bn.

According to Reuters, which first reported the talks, ITV wants to combine the business with its ITV Studios unit, which makes Love Island. Citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter, Reuters added that Liberty Global could retain a stake in the merged entity.

Liberty Global is already a long-term shareholder in ITV, with a stake of around 10%.