I seen a Kitco interview with Barrick exec saying they were focused on western America (about a year ago). That and they have an interest in the donlin mine about a 100 miles north of Pebble, so likely where the rumors come from. But I wouldn't rule out Newmont now that NAK brought on Chodos.
Doubt barrack will go for northern ever Just a pipe dream
However I find the environmentalist lack of understanding as for this project to be surreal They really don’t want anything that will help the country at the cost of using land Even in remote Alaska where so many locals are In favor of the project But they drive those big SUV’s around to rallies