Ideagen PLC (AIM:IDEA) said other potential bidders for the company have emerged since Cinven, the private equity firm, decided not to make an offer for the company.
Private equity firms Astorg and Hg have been named as the companies in the frame; they have until 5.00 pm on 2 June to make a firm offer, otherwise, they will be prevented from making an offer for six months unless a rival bid emerges.
Ideagen issued the usual caveat that there can be no certainty that a firm offer will be made.
Shares in Ideagen opened 4.4% higher at 226.5p on the news.