Goldman Sachs (GS.US) may appoint COO John Waldron as CEO as early as next year.

According to Golden Ten Data APP, it is reported that Goldman Sachs' board has discussed a plan for 57-year-old President and Chief Operating Officer John Waldron to succeed David Solomon as CEO as early as next year.

The report, citing sources familiar with the matter, said that the related change could take place by the end of 2027 or in 2028. According to the report, under the plan, the 64-year-old David Solomon is likely to serve as Executive Chairman for one to two years after stepping down as CEO to ensure a smooth transition. The plan still requires board approval, which could take place in the coming months, but the timetable may change.

The report noted that a Goldman Sachs spokesperson responded that the board regularly discusses succession matters, but the company has no definitive succession timetable and any timing rumors are purely speculative.

The report also cited sources saying that Goldman Sachs executives originally expected David Solomon to serve a full ten-year term as CEO, remaining until 2028. If the plan is implemented, the transition may occur earlier than expected. David Solomon succeeded Lloyd Blankfein as CEO on October 1, 2018.

Waldron has served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Goldman Sachs since 2018 and has long been considered the leading candidate for succession.