Qualcomm has in recent days approached Intel to explore a potential acquisition of the troubled chipmaker, a source familiar with the situation said on Friday, in what could be a transformational deal in the sector but faces many hurdles.

The chipmaker Qualcomm has approached its rival Intel in recent days about the possibility of acquiring the slumping Silicon Valley giant, two people familiar with the matter said Friday, requesting anonymity because the talks were confidential.

However, the WSJ reports that a deal is "far from certain," according to sources familiar with the matter. Intel may or may not be receptive to the deal, which makes sense when you consider Qualcomm could tear Intel apart by selling assets or part of the company to other buyers.