Apollo (APO.US) reportedly plans to acquire Johnson & Johnson’s (JNJ.US) orthopedics business in a potential deal valued at nearly $20 billions

According to Jinse Finance APP, media reports citing sources familiar with the matter indicate that global alternative asset management firm Apollo Global Management (APO.US) is in talks to acquire Johnson & Johnson’s (JNJ.US) orthopedics division DePuy Synthes. The deal could value the business at nearly $20 billion. The report states that an agreement may be reached in the coming weeks. It also adds that while several private equity firms have shown interest in the business, the pharmaceutical giant may also decide to spin off the division as an independent publicly listed company.