According to people familiar with the matter, the board of Goldman Sachs has discussed a plan to have David Solomon step down as chief executive officer and be succeeded by current Chief Operating Officer John Waldron, with a transition potentially taking place as early as next year.

The question of CEO succession at Wall Street's largest banks has become a key focus for investors. At JPMorgan, attention centers on when Jamie Dimon might step down; meanwhile, investors are also closely watching leadership succession planning at Bank of America, whose current head, Brian Moynihan, is one of the longest-serving chief executives among major U.S. banks.

According to one person familiar with the matter, Goldman Sachs executives had previously expected Solomon to serve as CEO for as long as 10 years, which would mean he would likely remain in the role until 2028. He took the position in October 2018.

Sources said the discussions involve Waldron taking over the role at the end of 2027 or in 2028. Under the plan, Solomon would continue to serve as executive chairman for one to two years after stepping down as CEO.

Sources said the proposal still requires approval from the Goldman Sachs board, and the specific timing could change.