Sanofi va por Genzyme...?

Sanofi-Aventis SA made a takeover approach to Genzyme Corp., the largest maker of medicines for genetic diseases, about two weeks ago, said two people with knowledge of the matter.

Sanofi, France’s biggest drugmaker, is waiting for a response to the approach and hasn’t entered substantive merger negotiations, said the people, who declined to be named because the talks are private. The offer values Genzyme at less than $20 billion, they said. Genzyme surged 15 percent to $62.52 at 4 p.m. New York time in Nasdaq Stock Market composite trading.

Acquiring Genzyme, the world’s largest maker of medicines for genetic diseases, would help Sanofi expand in biotechnology. Sanofi Chief Executive Officer Chris Viehbacher briefed Sanofi’s board the week of June 28 on plans for a major acquisition in the U.S., two other people with knowledge of the situation said.

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