VNU, the Dutch market research and publishing group, is reported to be considering the sale of it's telephone directories business. Analysts believe that the company could fetch up to €2.5bn (£1.45bn) for the directories group. VNU have indicated that they hope to complete a deal by the end of the year, though it is speculated that a sale could be closed as early as October. Potential bidders are said to have included Kravis Kohlburg Roberts, Carlyle and Permira. Yell Group chief executive John Condron has been quoted as confirming that Yell is considering buying the directories group.