Bertelsmann and Pearson are in talks about combining their publishing divisions, Random Houseand Penguin, to create a global market leader in response to the strategic challenges of the fast-growing ebook business.

Discussions have focused on a tie-up in which Bertelsmann would have a stake of more than 50 per cent, according to three people familiar with the negotiations, who warned that talks could still fall apart.

Pearson, which owns the Financial Times, issued a statement after FT.com reported the talks: “Pearson confirms that it is discussing with Bertelsmann a possible combination of Penguin and Random House. The companies have not reached agreement and there is no certainty that the discussions will lead to a transaction.” Bertelsmann, whose top executives are in China, declined to comment.