Aker ASA (OB:AKER) is considering a sale of Aker Solutions (OB:AKSO), according to people familiar with the matter. Aker ASA is discussing options with potential adviser The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS), said the people, who asked not to be identified because talks are private. Aker Solutions has been informally shopped to potential buyers, the people said.

No final decisions have been made. Aker won't comment on rumors or speculation, spokesman Atle Kigen said. "Aker has said several times that it's open for alliances or transactions if they're in the best interest of the companies and the shareholders,” Atle Kigen said.

A representative for Aker Solutions declined to comment. “It's the board and management of Aker Solutions which have the responsibility for business decisions,” Christine Spersrud Haug, a spokeswoman for the Trade and Industry Ministry, said in an e-mailed statement, adding that the government in general will assess any transactions related to its holdings.