Is Torrent a serious contender for Merck?

Torrent seems to be emerging as a serious player in the Merck generics deal. Sources say the company looks all geared to take a big jump into the global generics space, tacitly backed by willing private equity players, reports CNBC-TV18.

Sources say that Torrent Pharma is backed by Greater Pacific and Fortress Investment. They also state that top Torrent officials are camping in Germany for the deal.

The deal is valued at around USD 6 billion. Merck management presentations were on this week. Those who are still in the race for Merck include Actavis, Mylan and Teva. Sources claim that due diligence of short-listed bidders will be seen next week onwards.

Torrent Pharma is also looking at big global generic presence. It has acquired Heumann Labs in Germany a few years ago from Pfizer.