Asda is reportedly seeking advice on the £2.5 billion auction of Somerfield.
The Wal-Mart-owned chain is thought to be considering an outright acquisition of Somerfield, or buying some of its 955 stores.
Industry analysts believe that a purchase of a parcel of stores is more likely.
The move could help the UK number-two close its gap on retail leader Tesco, which has a market share of more than 31 per cent, nearly double the 16.7 per cent held by Asda.
Asda missed out on buying Safeway in 2004 and it is also understood to have considered Woolworth’s in the past.
No firm decision has been as yet.
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