Bosses at Bradford-based Morrisons are remaining tight-lipped about speculation that the supermarket group is about to make an outright bid for online retailer Ocado.

In March Morrisons’ chief executive Dalton Philips (right) confirmed that the company was in talks with Ocado about licensing some of Ocado’s intellectual property and operating know-ledge to help Morrisons launch its online grocery business from January next year.

He denied speculation that Morrisons was thinking of buying Ocado.

But rumours have returned about the Bradford store group’s intentions, including a £1 billion-plus bid to buy loss-making Ocado.

Former Marks & Spencer chief Sir Stuart Rose will become chairman of Ocado next month and reports suggested that, should Morrisons want to buy the company, he would hold out for a higher price.

Morrisons’ shares increased in value amid the speculation, with analysts saying they would not be surprised if Morrisons decided to bid for Ocado.

A Morrisons spokesman said the company did not comment on rumours.