CLEVELAND -- Rumors are swirling that the second-largest bank in the Pittsburgh region could soon be taken over.

Video: Watch Sheldon Ingram's report

The Wall Street Journal cites anonymous sources in a Thursday report that National City is in talks with several banks.

Many analysts like Brian Koble of Hefron-Tilloston, suspect that National City Bank is struggling to stay above the mess that is pulling down the nation's economy.

"National City is facing its share of problems. The reason for that is because of the weak housing market," said Koble.

The buzz in many circles is that PNC Bank and the Bank of Nova Scotia are potential buyers.

But when it comes to how it affects the money of National City Bank customers, Koble says they shouldn't be worried.

"If your bank is being bought out, that's good. Because it usually being bought by a larger, higher quality bank," Koble said.

PNC is ranked as Pittsburgh's largest bank, ranked by deposit shares in the market. National City is No. 2. And Koble said customers' only headache with a potential sale is a minor one.

"I think the biggest hassle is getting a new bank manager or having to go to a new branch," Koble said.

National City spokeswoman Kristen Baird Adams wouldn't deny that the bank is looking for a buyer. She says the bank doesn't comment on rumors and speculation.

PNC spokesman Fred Solomon also says his company also won't talk about rumors or speculation.

National City has been hit hard by high-risk mortgage loans and was forced to arrange a $7 billion capital infusion in April.

Previous: Bank President Says National City Stable, Deposits Safe (Sept. 27, 2008)

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