Shipbuilder DSME is close to securing orders for a pair of VLCCs from Greece's Pantheon Tankers after the shipowner placed contracts for up to two LNG carriers at the yard this week.

Discussion between DSME and Pantheon over the VLCCs is at the final stage and the contract will be signed imminently, according to shipbuilding players.

The price tag was not disclosed, but DSME is said to be seeking at least $83m for a Tier III-compliant VLCC newbuilding.