There is no certainty that a deal will be signed as the negotiations are ongoing, they added. Both First Quantum and Manara Minerals declined to comment on the sale. The potential deal is in the spotlight as copper is a much sought-after element for the clean energy transition due to its uses in the manufacture of electric cars and data centers powering artificial intelligence. First Quantum earlier this year said it was in talks with potential investors to sell a partial stake in the Zambian mines, while also exploring the sale of its Spanish mine Las Cruces to raise capital and cut debt after the Panama government ordered the shutdown of its flagship Cobre Panama mine. Manara has emerged as a front runner for the purchase as the Saudi firm's strategy to acquire a minority interest fits with First Quantum's aim to retain a majority stake in the mines, said the sources, who did not wish to be quoted as they are not authorised to speak with media.