recommend the approval of Exxon's $81 billion acquisition of Mobil, which would create one of the world's largest energy companies, government officials close to the deal said on Saturday.

Some states indicated they were not satisfied with the divestiture proposal -- including the sale of about 2,400 gas stations across the US -- that was worked by the companies and the agency, although it is unlikely those states could block the merger.

"We're still concerned about the overall anti-competitive effects of so huge a merger with so sweeping an effect in consolidating ownership and control, and about the possible harm to consumers,'' Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal said in an interview.

He said Connecticut opposes the deal. Other states, including Texas and California, have agreed with the terms offered by Mobil and Exxon -- the owner of Esso Bermuda.