Negotiations are heating up around the potential acquisition of U.S. Steel, with key players staking out their positions. The United Steelworkers union and Nippon Steel are discussing terms that could facilitate Nippon's purchase of U.S. Steel. Meanwhile, Cleveland-Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves has expressed interest in making a bid for U.S. Steel, with the condition of union support, and has specified a maximum offer of not more than $30 per share if the deal with Nippon Steel doesn't materialize. Goncalves also plans to advocate for the continuation of current tariffs on Japanese steel. Nippon Steel believes acquiring U.S. Steel would bolster 'defenses against China'. There's political interest in the deal as well, with conservatives urging the Biden administration to allow the Nippon Steel acquisition of U.S. Steel to proceed without political interference, highlighting the potential benefits for American workers and the strategic advantage against China.