Honda Motor (HMC) is considering resuming takeover talks with Nissan to become the world's fourth-largest carmaker if Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida steps down, the Financial Times reported Monday, citing sources familiar with the discussions.

The report said Uchida, a key advocate for the merger, has faced deteriorating relations with Honda's CEO Toshihiro Mibe, particularly over the slow pace of Nissan's restructuring and its financial struggles.

The merger talks collapsed last week, where both companies, in a joint statement, cited concerns over various possible structures of a combined company.

Uchida, who had hoped to remain in his position until 2026, is under increasing pressure to step down following failed negotiations for a megadeal, according to the Financial Times.

Nissan's board had also begun informal discussions over the timing of his exit, the report said, citing a person familiar with those talks.

Honda and Nissan did not immediately respond to MT Newswires' request for comment.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)