Clarksons Platou Securities has identified Oslo OSV newcomer SD Standard Drilling as the most attractive acquisition target in the sector currently.

"At the centre of the consolidation map, strategic opportunities abound," its managing director of equity and credit research, Turner Holm, said.

"If all roads lead to Rome, then all potential OSV M&A deals lead to Standard."

It said platform supply vessel (PSV) specialist Standard is the obvious choice for owners looking to upgrade their fleet with North Sea exposure.