J&J (JNJ) Cuts Diagnostic Unit Bidders to Three Groups

In Johnson & Johnson's (NYSE: JNJ) effort to unload its diagnostics unit, the company is said to have whittled potential buyers down to just three.

Bloomberg reports Friday that J&J's list for its Ortho Clinical Diagnostics unit include a joint bid from Blackstone Group (NYSE: BX)/Danaher (NYSE: DHR), joint bid from Leonard Green/CVC Capital, and a solo bid from private equity giant Carlyle group (Nasdaq: CG).

J&J is expected to make a decision on the unit before the end of 2013, according to sources familiar with the matter. JPMorgan was tapped to advise J&J on the sale.

J&J shares are indicated lower Friday.

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