Evoke has confirmed it is talking with Bally’s Intralot S.A. about a possible takeover, ending days of market chatter around the debt-laden betting group that owns William Hill and 888.

The London-listed company said the early-stage approach values the business at 50 pence a share ($0.68). Investors have been watching for signs of corporate interest after a difficult stretch marked by tax pressure, store closures and questions over leverage.

In a stock exchange statement , Evoke said it “notes the recent media speculation and confirms that it is in discussions with Bally’s Intralot S.A.…