Countrywide Financial Corp shares closed down almost 2 percent on Tuesday following a report the largest U.S. mortgage lender was working on a strategic investment similar to the deal with Bank of America Corp last month in which it received a $2 billion injection.

The Bank of America investment helped Countrywide shore up its finances as it struggles with a liquidity crunch.

The New York Post, citing sources familiar with the company's plans, reported in its online edition on Tuesday that Countrywide continues to work with Goldman Sachs Group Inc and law firm Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz to structure the new strategic investment.

It was unclear who was involved, but a group that could include JPMorgan Chase & Co and Citigroup Inc, as well as several hedge funds, had expressed interest, the report said, citing unnamed sources.

A final deal could be announced by the end of the month, the report added.

In a statement, Countrywide said it was the company's policy not to comment on market rumors.

Countrywide added: Reiterating its earlier statements regarding cash and liquidity needs, the company has already taken decisive steps to address the challenges arising in this environment and thereby enable Countrywide to meet its funding needs and position the company for continued growth and success.

JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup and Goldman Sachs declined to comment.

After falling more than 5 percent earlier in the session, Countrywide shares recovered ground to close down 33 cents, or 1.9 percent, at $16.88 on the New York Stock Exchange.

(Reporting by Mark McSherry and and Lewis Krauskopf)

Bank of america Goldman sachs Citigroup Jpmorgan chase