As anticipation of a Siemens-led bid grows, little mention has been made of what may be proposed for Alstom's wind and offshore grid businesses.

Siemens has a dominant market position in Europe in both offshore wind and grid, and could encounter competition issues if taking over those parts of Alstom.

Alstom's energy business, including its onshore and offshore wind operations, is already the subject of a bid of $17bn by GE of the US, which has been supported by the French group's board.

Siemens