Nortel Networks, the Canadian equipment maker that filed for bankruptcy protection in February, will “seriously” consider any bids for its businesses. In an interview with Bloomberg, the company’s VP of strategic marketing for its carrier networks unit, Bruce Gustafson, said, “we will go through the process of having those discussions,” adding that the vendor is “obligated” to squeeze the most out of its assets amid the reorganisation.

Nortel’s stance follows reports last month that the company is in talks to sell-off its mobile and enterprise businesses, which together accounted for US$6.7 billion in sales last year. Nokia Siemens Networks has been linked to its mobile assets, whilst Avaya and Siemens are reportedly among several companies looking at Nortel’s enterprise business. Private equity firms have also been linked to a potential purchase. A sale of Nortel’s mobile business – which generates the most cash for the company – would complicate plans for Nortel to emerge as a standalone company. CEO Mike Zafirovski said in March that the company hopes to complete its reorganisation plans and emerge from bankruptcy protection before mid-year as “a leaner and more competitive company.” However, under bankruptcy law, Nortel must seek the most value for its creditors, which could mean breaking the company apart if suitable buyers are found. The company is currently some US$4.5 billion in debt.