Shares of East Kilbride-based Goals Soccer Centres rose about 6% after it confirmed it was in “preliminary discussions” about a merger with rival firm Powerleague.

“The board of Goals notes the recent press speculation concerning discussions with Powerleague and the possibility of combining the two businesses,” said Goals in a stock exchange statement.

 “The preliminary discussions with Powerleague are but one of the strategic opportunities currently being assessed by the Goals board.

“Furthermore, at this stage, no commercial or financial terms have been agreed and no decision on any course of action has been made by the board.

“There is therefore no certainty that any transaction will proceed.

“Notwithstanding the above, the board and the executive are highly focused on delivering the plan announced in June 2016. 

“The company will provide a further update in due course when appropriate.”