Private equity fund Investindustrial is close to sign a stake deal with British sportscar manufacturer Aston Martin, three unnamed sources with direct knowledge of the matter said.

Citing unnamed sources, the Financial Times reported on Thursday that Investindustrial would acquire a 37.5 per cent stake in the iconic sportscar brand from Kuwaiti investment house Investment Dar - Aston's current owner.

But the sources declined to explain what the deal between Investindustrial and Investindustrial would entail.

Indian manufacturer Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) had been pursuing discussions with Aston's owner to acquire a stake into the iconic sportscar brand. Sources said the M&M might have pulled out of the race. However, they couldn't confirm the Indian manufacturer's exit.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, the people said, "It's probable that there will be an announcement. It's not 100 percent certain, but it's probable."

Owned by Italy-based Bonomi family, Investindustrial is not already known for its interest in luxury motor brands. It acquired Italian motorcycle maker Ducati in 2006 and sold it to Volkswagen's Audi division last April for around 860 million euros.