Harley-Davidson is reportedly among several potential suitors for Italian high-end motorcycle manufacturer Ducati.
Reuters reported last week that a deal with the Milwaukee-based motorcycle giant could be worth up to $1.67 billion; the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel added that Ducati's celebrated racing heritage could bolster Harley's efforts to attract younger riders.
Bajaj Auto, another motorcycle manufacturer based in India, along with private equity funds KKR, Bain Capital and Permira are also interested in the company. Other potential suitors either denied any interest or were dissuaded by the asking price.
One source told Reuters that tentative bids for Ducati were expected to be submitted next month.
Ducati owner Volkswagen hopes to sell the company amid a restructuring effort following its diesel emissions scandal, but the unions representing VW workers — which control half the seats on the company's board — oppose the effort.
