The New York Times Co. (NYSE: NYT) has gone public with efforts to sell the Boston Globe and the rest of the New England Media Group but Arthur Sulzberger, Jr., is staying away from absolutes about an actual sale. In his first interview on the subject, Sulzberger told the Globe: “We are exploring that as a possibility. It does not mean it will absolutely be the case. What’s important here is that the Globe be maintained as a viable business entity, whether it’s sold or we continue to operate it, and to make sure it has the financial stability to ensure its continuity. We’re committed to that.”

He also said he was aware of concerns that a private equity bidder might come in and make big staff cuts, as was the case with Platinum Equity and the San Diego Union-Tribune. The Globe reported today that Platinum is one of three bidders, with a $35 million offer plus the assumption of $59 million in pension liability. “Price is not the only consideration,” he told the Globe.