Human Genome Sciences Inc said on Thursday its long-time partner GlaxoSmithKline Plc had made an unsolicited proposal to buy it for $13.00 per share in cash, a move underscoring the rapid pace of deal-making in pharmaceuticals.

With 198.5 million shares in issue, the bid would value Human Genome at around $2.6 billion. The stock closed on Wednesday at $7.16.

Human Genome said it did not believe the offer reflected the value inherent in the company. It has hired Goldman Sachs and Credit Suisse to assist with exploration of strategic alternatives.

A spokeswoman for GSK, Britain's biggest drugmaker, said the company would issue a statement shortly.

(Reporting by Ben Hirschler)

United kingdom Glaxosmithkline