Adecco SA expressed interest in buying London-based staffing firm Michael Page International PLC.

Michael Page said today the approach was unsolicited and is subject to a number of conditions. "The board of Michael Page continues to believe that the company has a very strong future as an independent group," the company announced.

Adecco confirmed the overture, but said discussions are at an early stage.

Adecco is the largest staffing firm in the world. Michael Page ranked No. 21 on Staffing Industry Analysts' list of the world's largest staffing firms. It was once owned by Spherion Corp. (NYSE: SFN).