According to four informed sources, European energy leaders including Total SA and Shell are exploring the possibility of acquiring a majority stake in one of the most promising oil fields in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. This potential transaction has drawn significant attention as conflict in the Middle East increases interest in North American energy assets.

Five additional sources indicated that London-listed BP has also shown interest, while Spain's Repsol is likewise considering participation. Two other informed individuals stated that Chevron is expected to evaluate whether to submit a bid.

Three sources revealed that the two owners of the Shenandoah offshore oil field recently initiated a sale process for their stakes, offering potential buyers a 51% interest in the project. The sellers are Blackstone-backed field operator Beacon Offshore Energy and HEQ Deepwater, which is jointly owned by Quantum Capital Group and Houston Energy. The remaining stake in the field is held by Israel's Navitas Petroleum.

Preliminary bids are anticipated to be submitted within the coming weeks, according to the sources. Another individual familiar with the matter noted that other potential participants in the process could include major energy producers from the Middle East and Asia.

The sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of the discussions, emphasized that not all of the mentioned parties are certain to submit offers. The valuation of any transaction would depend on factors such as the final percentage of the Shenandoah field stake sold and the direction of oil prices.

Total SA, Repsol, BP, Beacon, Quantum, Blackstone, and Shell all declined to comment. A representative for HEQ also offered no comment. A spokesperson for Chevron stated, "Chevron regularly evaluates business opportunities and its asset portfolio. We do not disclose our business development strategy."