NEW YORK — Kohl’s confirmed that it has been approached about a possible sale of the department store chain, sending shares up more than 30% in early trading today.

The company said that it would not comment further, but its confirmation follows media reports that the private equity firm Sycamore Partners had approached Kohl’s about a potential deal. Days earlier, a group backed by activist hedge fund Starboard Value LP reportedly bid $64 per share, or about $9 billion

Kohl’s Corp., based in Menomonee Falls, Wis., said Monday that its board is reviewing the offers.

Shares of Kohl’s spiked 31% or $14.79 to $61.63.