Apple is reportedly considering a potential takeover bid for Jay Z's music streaming service Tidal.

The company is exploring acquiring Tidal because of its strong ties to popular artists such as Kanye West and Madonna, according to the Wall Street Journal.

A source told the publication that "exploratory talks" were continuing and may not result in a deal.

However, a Tidal spokesman denied that its executives had discussed a deal with Apple, the Wall Street Journal said.

Jay Z joined forces with a number of music artists in March 2015 to unveil Tidal as a rival Spotify.

The rap mogul bought out Swedish technology company Aspiro, which owned Tidal, for $56 million (£42 million).

Last month, Kanye West used Tidal to unveil the controversial video to his song Famous, featuring depictions of a number of naked celebrities including Taylor Swift and Donald Trump.

Madonna's video for the track B**** I'm Madonna was also shown exclusively on the service for 24 hours before being released to the wider public.

Tidal is the only streaming service that offers the back catalogue of late music superstar Prince, who died in April after an accidental overdose.