Based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, AkzoNobel is a global paints and coatings company as well as a major producer of specialty chemicals. Axalta, headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, is a global coatings company dedicated to the development, manufacture and sale of liquid and powder coatings. 

According to industry sources, Axalta is considering the deal, but no decision has been made. 

Earlier this year, AkzoNobel was approached by PPG Industries regarding a takeover. In July, the Dutch paint and coatings maker announced it was looking at spinning off its specialty chemicals business.