UPDATE 2 – Pioneer Natural Resources denies takeover interest reports

(Restatements as Pioneer denies takeover interest reports)

February 24 (Reuters) –

Oil and gas explorer Pioneer Natural Resources Co said on Friday it has no plans for any business combinations, after Bloomberg News reported that the oil and gas explorer is considering acquiring smaller U.S. rival Range Resources Corp.

“The company is not considering a significant business merger or other acquisition transaction,” Pioneer said in a statement.

Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the matter, reported that talks were ongoing, although it was unclear whether the companies would reach an agreement. Bloomberg said Texas-based Pioneer is seeking further consolidation in the shale industry as part of the deal.

Range Resources did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. (Reporting by Kanjyik Ghosh in Bengaluru; Additional reporting by Mrinmay Dey; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli, Chris Reese and Leslie Adler)