Southdown takeover target for leading British cement maker.(Blue Circle Industries PLC)(Brief Article)

After putting itself in play, Houston-based cement manufacturer Southdown Inc. has surfaced as takeover bait for the largest British cement maker.

Southdown, a leading cement manufacturer in the U.S., is reportedly mulling its sale to United Kingdom heavyweight Blue Circle Industries PLC.

The Houston company in recent weeks has said it was exploring a variety of ways to enhance shareholder value. Options under consideration include "the possible sale or merger" of Southdown, company spokesman Thomas Daman noted Monday.

A bidding war could emerge: Southdown is also being eyed by Cimpor, Portugal's biggest cement producer, according to the Portuguese. …