Replying to news reports that Diageo may pick up minority stake in Vijay Mallya’s United Spirits, the company confirmed it was in talks with the latter. The company, however, added that the talks were in a preliminary stage, and may or may not have any outcome. Adil Asif, Managing Director, Diageo India, said, “We are in talks but a transaction may or may not materialise. That is the extent that I can comment."