Possible Dell Bidder Eyeing Oracle President If Michael Dell Won't Stay

The Blackstone Group is reportedly considering a higher offer than the $24.4 billion deal currently agreed to by the Dell board of directors with Silver Lake Partners and others, according to Fortune.

Blackstone would prefer that Michael Dell remain the CEO if it purchases the company but has to consider alternatives if Dell remains committed to Silver Lake, according to Fortune. Blackstone's recruiting effort of Hurd, also the former CEO of Hewlett-Packard, is considered "aggressive," but the company may also consider ex-Compaq CEO Michael Capellas, according to the report.

Related: Dell CEO Personally Lobbies Partners On Private Equity Play

Dell is currently working on a leveraged buyout by Silver Lake, Michael Dell and others -- including a loan of up to $2 billion from Microsoft -- for $13.65 per share.

The customary "go-shop" period for the board to receive alternative offers ends March 22, and although no formal offers have been made public, Blackstone, Icahn Enterprises and several others are reportedly mulling the idea of taking over Dell at a higher price.

Wall Street apparently expects a formal deal to be announced as the company's stock has traded above the $13.65 mark for more than a month now. Dell shares closed Wednesday at $14.33, up 2 cents.

PUBLISHED MARCH 20, 2013