Simon may offer new deal for General Growth

NEW YORK, March 16 (Reuters) - Simon Property Group Inc (SPG.N) has been corresponding with bankrupt General Growth Properties Inc (GGP.N) about a potential sweetened offer, a source close to the matter said on Tuesday.

Although no final offer has been made, Simon Chief Financial Officer Steve Sterrett met on Monday with General Growth representatives, the source said. In addition, Simon, the largest U.S. mall owner, has responded to a letter sent by General Growth seeking more details on how it would fund a deal and if Simon would offer General Growth equity owners stock, the source said.

A representative from Simon did not know about the discussions. A representative from General Growth was not immediately available for comment. (Reporting by Ilaina Jonas; editing by Andre Grenon)