Axel Springer Considers Company Split with KKR

German media giant Axel Springer is contemplating a company split with private equity group KKR, according to sources. In this potential deal, KKR would take over the classifieds business, while CEO Mathias Doepfner and Friede Springer would manage the media side. The Financial Times first reported the discussions.

German media giant Axel Springer, which owns Germany's popular Bild tabloid and political news company Politico, is considering a split of the company together with private equity group KKR, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Friday.

The plan would see KKR gain control of Springer's classifieds business, while CEO Mathias Doepfner would take control of the media business together with the founder's widow, Friede Springer, the sources said.

The Financial Times first reported on the break-up talks.