TOKYO, June 7 (Reuters) - Marelli Holdings, a Japanese

auto parts supplier owned by private equity firm KKR, is

considering filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the

United States, Kyodo news agency reported on Saturday, citing

unnamed sources.

Marelli, a key supplier to embattled Japanese automaker

Nissan Motor ( NSANF ), is looking into the Chapter 11 option to

ensure its business operations won't be halted even if its

restructuring talks with creditors fall through, Kyodo said.

Marelli said in a statement in response to Reuters that it

does not comment on market rumours or speculation.

Marelli is in negotiations with lenders to secure additional

loans and intends to operate as usual while those talks are

underway, the company also said.