Thomas Potts has admitted it is talking to TV tycoon Michael Green over a deal that may mean handing over almost a third of the print group.


The deal with Carlton Communications chairman Green is thought to involve swapping a 6m digital imaging business owned by Green for a 30% stake in the group, which includes G&E 2000 and CCS Potts.


Stephen Hargrave, chairman of Thomas Potts, would only confirm his company was "in talks, which may or may not lead to the acquisition of a digital imaging business".


But he added: "The suggestion is that Green owns the business and he will reverse the shares into Thomas Potts shares. Our announcement confirms we are in preliminary talks."


It is understood Green will not take part in the day-to-day running of Thomas Potts. His spokeswoman said he felt it was "inappropriate to comment at present".


The Carlton boss holds directorships in a long line of companies, including Zenith Photosetting, Tangent Litho, Facsimile Letter Printing Company and a host of TV and marketing firms.


Thomas Potts was floated on the Alternative Investment Market five years ago and has a market capitalisation of around 19m.


l Hargrave was also guarded over a rumoured 15m takeover target for PrintPotato.com, of which he is non-executive chairman (PrintWeek, 8 June).


"A deal is 99% certain within a few days," he said. "We are waiting for tax clearance to see if a tax liability will result from the sale. I cannot tell you any more until Ive told my shareholders."


PrintPotato.com and Thomas Potts are unconnected.


Story by Jez Abbott