Well-known accountant Mr Bernard Somers is actively considering an offer to become the chief executive of Independent Newspapers. It is understood that Mr Somers was approached about the post in recent weeks.

If he accepted Mr Somers would take over from Mr Liam Healy (69), the highly-regarded current chief executive who has occupied the post since 1991. Mr Somers is a close acquaintance of Dr Tony O'Reilly, Independent's chairman and is understood to be advising him on the issue of payments by Rennicks, a Fitzwilton subsidiary. to former deputy Mr Ray Burke. Mr Somers (48) is a successful businessman with his own accountancy practice. Known as a corporate troubleshooter he has previously advised Mr Larry Goodman and Mr Ben Dunne when he was taking court action against his family seeking to dissolve the family trust.

Mr Somers is currently a non-executive director on Independent Newspapers' board. He has a wide knowledge of the newspaper industry and previously advised Independent on cost control.

It is understood that Mr Somers was offered the post previously, but turned it down. Now he is said to be seriously considering the latest offer. It is not how long he would take the job for, if he did accept. The job entails considerable international travel given Independent's interests worldwide.

However, it is thought that Dr O'Reilly may want Mr Somers to take the post for a few years and that he could be succeeded by Dr O'Reilly's son Gavin, who is playing an increasing active role in Independent Newspapers. Gavin is currently deputy managing director of Independent Newspapers (Ireland).

Mr Somers, who is married with four children, has enjoyed considerable success as a private investor and he retains a number of interests in different companies. Attempts to contact Mr Somers yesterday proved unsuccessful.