According to sources, Anta is working with advisers to evaluate the potential offer and could team up with a private equity fund if it decides to move forward. Other possible bidders may include Li-Ning, which is already in talks with banks about financing, as well as Japan’s Asics, sources added.
Anta — owner of FILA and Jack Wolfskin — has seen its shares rise 10% this year, with a market value of around $31 billion. Puma, meanwhile, has been struggling with weaker results. Its new CEO Andreas Hubert, who took over in July, is aiming to restructure the company and return it to profit growth. Puma’s goal is to resume steady growth by 2027 and reestablish itself as one of the world’s top three sports brands.