PARIS (Reuters) - European media group Vivendi (PA:VIV) said on Monday that it was considering buying more shares in French video games makers Ubisoft (PA:UBIP) and Gameloft (PA:GLFT), and did not rule out making a takeover bid on the companies in the next six months.
The disclosure comes four days after Vivendi bought additional shares in the companies to bring its ownership to 10.39 percent in Ubisoft and 10.2 percent in Gameloft.
The video games companies have both said they want to remain independent and that Vivendi's investment has not been done with their agreement.
"These acquisitions were not specifically designed as a preparatory step for a plan to takeover Ubisoft and Gameloft," said Vivendi of the share purchases.
"Nevertheless, over the six coming months, Vivendi cannot rule out the possibility of considering such a plan."