Blackmore has immersed himself in folk rock since quitting Deep Purple mid-tour in 1993, then splitting Rainbow four years later. His band Blackmore's Night released their ninth album in 2013.

The singer tells Rockin' Metal Revival: "I've been in touch with Ritchie's camp. Hopefully we'll get something a little bit further in the talks in December. Now is the time - 2015. Everybody's sitting there waiting for this to happen."

Turner reports he's had positive reactions from industry bodies including Live Nation and Universal Music Group and adds: "All we need is the nod from Richie to say, 'I'm ready to of it.'"