Shares of Walgreens Boots Alliance have lost about half their value in the past year, as the chain has faced pressure in its retail and pharmacy businesses.

Negotiations are in advanced stages, with both sides aiming to seal the agreement as soon as Thursday, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Putting its many affairs in order will probably be easier as a private company, but there are still pitfalls — including a crushing load of debt.

The owner of Boots has been sold for almost £8billion - reviving hopes that the pharmacy chain could be floated in London.

Walgreens Boots Alliance is being acquired by a private-equity firm for about $10 billion, the retail pharmacy giant announced Thursday.

Walgreens Boots Alliance says it has agreed to be acquired by the private equity firm Sycamore Partners as the struggling retailer looks to turn itself around after years of losing money.