A Taiwanese media outlet says Hon Hai Precision Industry, also known as Foxconn, is in talks with French carmaker Renault to acquire its controlling stake in Japan's Nissan Motor.

The Central News Agency broke the news on Thursday, quoting two industry insiders.

CNA says discussions with Renault took place after Hon Hai's proposal to acquire a stake in Nissan was rejected by the company.

CNA says Hon Hai's team for the talks in France is led by Seki Jun, chief strategy officer for its electric vehicle operations. He was a senior executive at Nissan.

Different sources say Hon Hai was considering, behind closed doors, participation in Nissan's management through stock acquisition or other methods.

Nissan is currently in talks with Japanese firm Honda Motor for a possible merger. They are expected to sign a basic agreement as early as next week and enter into detailed negotiations.