Markets are looking for a decision from right-wing leader Matteo Salvini on joining a last-ditch bid to form a government and avoid snap elections that could highlight Italy's membership in the eurozone.
Salvini, leader of the Lega party, said he would seriously consider the offer by the leader of the 5-star movement Luigi Di Maio to revive their efforts to govern together.
The Italian president had earlier rejected their candidate for the post of economy minister who spoke strongly against the single currency. The Italian president then appointed Carlo Cottarelli, a former IMF official as interim prime minister, but has so far failed to form a government.
Opinion polls show that the LEGA party could see significant gains if snap elections are held while a 5-star move could remain in the gains made in the March 4 election.
