Sanofi-Aventis is considering four deals for eye-drug for a total of €1 billion ($1.36 billion) in possible acquisitions, French newspaper Les Echos reports. Three of the possible deals are for ophthalmology assets based in the U.S., while the fourth is in Israel. "The sum would be spread over three years, as the transactions include initial payments followed by subsequent earn-outs," the paper notes.
The news comes as the French drugmaker nears a deal to acquire Genzyme for about $18.5 billion. According to the Wall Street Journal, Sanofi has finished its due diligence on Genzyme's financial records and holdings, bring the two companies closer to a possible deal. Sanofi didn't find any cause for concern after reviewing the books, though it may decide to adjust its offer based on additional information gathered during the process. The drugmaker sweetened its offer to $19 billion, reports the WSJ, in order to gain access to Genzyme's books, but more negotiation will be necessary before a final agreement is reached.
- here's the report on they eye drug deals
- read more on Sanofi and Genzyme talks