PALO ALTO, California (AP) -- Personal computer and printer maker Hewlett-Packard reportedly is nearing a deal to buy information technology services provider Electronic Data Systems for between $12 billion (euro7.78 billion) and $13 billion (euro8.43 billion).

The Wall Street Journal reported the talks Monday on its Web site. The newspaper said the acquisition could be announced as early as Tuesday, citing unnamed people familiar with the matter.

HP spokesman Ryan Donovan declined to comment Monday. Plano, Texas-based EDS didn't immediately respond to messages.

Buying EDS would give Palo Alto-based HP more tools to compete against IBM in the lucrative field of technology consulting and customer support.