Bridgepoint Group plc (LSE:BPT) is considering a bid to take over Paris-listed software provider Esker SA (ENXTPA:ALESK), according to people familiar with the matter. The UK private equity firm has been working with advisers on a potential offer, the people said. Deliberations are ongoing and may not result in a transaction, said the people, who asked not to be identified as the information is private.

A representative for Bridgepoint declined to comment, while a representative for Esker didn?t immediately respond to requests for comment. Shares of Esker have risen 35% in the past year, giving the company a market value of about ?1.2 billion ($1.3 billion).