The US Department of Justice is seeking more information on the deal as part of an informal investigation.

"It is not uncommon for the Department of Justice to make second requests in transactions of this kind," said a Kodak spokesman. "We remain confident that we will complete the transaction."

However, the firms are now talking about completing the deal in the summer rather than by the end of Q2.

Sources suggest that the sticking point in agreeing the deal relates to the US newspaper plate market, although Kodak wouldn't comment on the claims.

Former KPG chief executive Jeff Jacobson will head up the Graphic Solutions & Services (GS&S) division and act as GCG chief operating officer.

Story by Barney Cox