The Globe and Mail reports in its Tuesday, Jan. 17, edition that Acacia Mining jumped to the highest in almost two months after the gold miner confirmed it is in talks with Endeavour Mining about a possible merger of the two companies which have a combined value of about $4-billion (U.S.). A Bloomberg dispatch to The Globe reports that on Friday Acacia said it was in "discussions regarding a possible combination" with Endeavour. Endeavour confirmed on Friday it had held discussions with Acacia that "may or may not result in agreement of a transaction." Investec analysts say, "On the face of it, this appears a sensible African-focused fit, with Endeavour's longer-term growth adding appeal to Acacia's flat profile." A merger would allow Barrick Gold to reduce its 64-per-cent interest in Acacia. The deal could enable Barrick to lower its interest in Acacia to about 30 per cent. Investec sees Barrick okaying the deal. The transaction could be structured as a reverse takeover, with Acacia buying Endeavour and the combined company keeping its listing in London, says an unnamed source. The plans are not concrete and the structure may change, adds the source.