Nokia has announced it is close to selling its security appliance arm to a mystery financial investor, but channel sources remain stumped as to the buyer’s identity.

The Finnish mobile phone giant said that discussions are in the “advanced stages” and claimed the disposal would help it focus on its core mobility business.

Niklas Savander, executive vice president of Services & Software at Nokia, said: “If this transaction is concluded, it would be an extremely positive development for the security appliance business, which will be able to realise its full potential under new ownership.

“The investor is committed to continuing the development and growth of the business, to serving its current network of customers, and to retaining and motivating its employees.”

Channel sources claimed that even some senior EMEA Nokia executives still remain in the dark as to the identity of the buyer. Nokia said further news about the transaction would be announced when a definitive agreement is reached with the investor.

As part of plans to focus on the consumer segment, Nokia also announced it plans to cease developing or marketing its own-behind-the-firewall business mobility solutions. It also said that, going forward, it plans to form its enterprise solutions offering through partnerships with the likes of Microsoft, IBM and Cisco.