(Reuters) -The NFL and Disney’s ESPN have reached a deal, potentially worth billions, placing many of the league’s media holdings with the sports network in exchange for equity in ESPN, the Athletic reported on Friday.
ESPN is expected to have access to RedZone, NFL Network, seven more regular-season games and the NFL’s fantasy football business, the report said, citing sources briefed on the agreement.
There is also a possibility of integrating special features, including betting, and potentially more assets too.
The four-year on-and-off discussions have led to what is said to be a complicated agreement, the Athletic report said. An official announcement is expected next week.
Disney is set to report results on Wednesday.
Both ESPN and the NFL declined to comment on the report when contacted by Reuters.
The news of the deal comes as Disney is set to launch its new streaming service, named ESPN, this fall, providing access to ESPN networks, including professional and college football and basketball games.
The new service will cost $29.99 per month and is part of the media company’s effort to tap sports fans who have never subscribed to traditional television.
(Reporting by Juby Babu in Mexico City; Editing by Alan Barona)
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