Endemol, the maker of Big Brother and Deal or No Deal, has announced a strong performance in the third quarter of 2006.

The company expects its revenue to grow by more than 15%, up on its previous projections of 11%-13%.

Endemol's results statement said the company's "sound performance" was "strongly fuelled" by the success of game show Deal or No Deal, which has already been broadcast in 45 territories this year.

The Q3 announcement comes as speculation grows over the possible sale of the Netherlands-based company by its Spanish owner Telefonica.

A long-running dispute with the company's French subsidary Endemol France over bonus payments has now been resolved, which had previously stopped any sale going ahead.

Reuters said analysts expected Endemol to be sold for up to 2.5 billion Euros following the reintegration of Endemol France.