Channel 4 being weighed up by potential bidders

Channel 4 is being eyed up by a number of potential buyers as the government gears up for a sale, it was being reported over the weekend.

Companies such as BT and Discovery Communications have been named amongst those said to be circling the broadcaster.

According to the Telegraph, a number of potential backers have been approached over a bid, which sources told it could exceed £1bn.

Discovery is said to be watching Channel 4 closely and considering whether to put in a bid, sources at the company said.

It is a joint owner of All3Media, one of the biggest programme supplier to Channel 4.