TeliaSonera makes play for Polkomtel

TeliaSonera has confirmed that it has made an indicative offer for Polish wireless network operator Polkomtel; interested parties have until 4pm today to file their preliminary offers. Polkomtel’s sale advisors are expected to evaluate the bids this month, and respond with a short-list during March. Polkomtel has so far attracted interest from ten firms, including America Movil, Spain’s Telefonica and Egypt’s Orascom Telecom. Private equity funds TPG and Blackstone are also believed to be working on a possible joint bid. Permira, Providence and Polish businessman Zygmunt Solorz-Zak are also believed to have received the detailed sales documents for prospective bidders. Other private equity groups including Apax, KKR, EQT, CVC and BC Partners could also be interested.