Juncker, Tsipras eye Greece deal in early June

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker held talks in a very friendly and constructive climate on the sidelines of an EU leaders' meeting in Riga on Friday, according to sources who indicated that the two men looked to a possible deal early next month.

Tsipras briefed Juncker on the progress of negotiations between Greece and its creditors and the latter acknowledged that steps have been made in the technical-level talks although differences remain on contentious issues.

Juncker deemed that a deal could be reached within the time frame that has been set out, apparently referring to early June when Greece's next repayment to creditors are due.

Sources close to Tsipras said the premier's meetings in Riga -- which also included talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande -- were aimed at boosting the negotiations but noted that "realistic steps" must be taken by all sides.