Kering said it would sell about 8.9 million shares. Based on a Puma closing price of 93.6 euros, the French firm would raise about 833 million euros

Kering said that following the sale, it expected to retain approximately 4.0% of Puma's outstanding shares.

As a result of the placement, Puma's free float is expected to increase to about 66.7%.

Kering said proceeds from the transaction would be used for general corporate purposes and would further strengthen its finances.

Kering will announce the results of the placement after the close of the bookbuilding process.

Last year, Kering sold a 5.9% stake in Puma for approximately 656 million euros ($800 million).

($1 = 0.8196 euros)

(Reporting by GV De Clercq and Matthieu Protard. Editing by Mark Potter and Angus MacSwan)