Reuters reports this morning that Renault has been in talks with Chrysler about a deal to sell the Jeep brand.

The news agency cites three sources with knowledge of the talks, but reports a Renault spokeswoman denying it has held any such discussions with Chrysler.

Cash-strapped Chrysler has until March to develop a long-term restructure programme if it is to secure further help from the US government.

A source told Reuters that Renault wanted to clarify whether acquisition of some Chrysler assets would jeopardise the company's access to government funding.