Merck would acquire Harpoon for $700 million

(Boursier.com) — Merck the American pharmaceutical laboratory, is said to be in advanced discussions to acquire Harpoon Therapeutics for $23 per share, according to Bloomberg. People familiar with the matter say the transaction, in which Merck could pay $700 million for Harpoon, could be announced within days. Harpoon is an immuno-oncology group. Merck’s potential offer would feature a 118% premium to Friday’s closing prices, with Harpoon listed on the Nasdaq. Bloomberg, however, does not completely rule out a possible failure of the discussions.