The New York Times reported today that some of the country’s biggest buyout firms have approached Home Depot CEO Frank Blake – put in place after Robert Nardelli resigned&nbsp ; – with proposals to buy $12 billion HD Supply.

&nbsp ;

The Times says analysts expect HD could sell the fast-growing division for $9 billion.

&nbsp ;

The article goes on to discuss HD Supply’s profit margins as slimmer than retail, and HD’s need to find a way to grow the retail side of the company. Synergies between wholesale and retail have yet to be realized, according to the piece.

&nbsp ;

Home Depot announced Monday that it was considering strategic alternatives for HD Supply, including a possible sale, spin off or initial public offering.

New …