IGO Limited (ASX:IGO) Ltd. said on August 17, 2021 it was in preliminary talks to acquire nickel miner Western Areas Limited (ASX:WSA), as it raises its footprint in battery materials after buying a lithium stake earlier this year. The companies confirmed in brief, separate statements that they were in early-stage discussions over a deal and how to arrange due diligence, but said there was no certainty that a deal would go through. The Australian Financial Review had reported on August 18, 2021 that IGO was a likely candidate to bid for Western Areas.