Yahoo is reportedly in talks to acquire a controlling stake in popular video sharing platform Dailymotion, in a move that would put it in closer competition with YouTube.
The Wall Street Journal reports that Yahoo is planning to buy about 75% of online video website, which is owned by French telecommunications company France Telecom-Orange.
If true, the purchase would be company’s largest deal since its new CEO Marissa Mayer took charge in July 2012.
The WSJ reports bthat Dailymotion could be valued at around $300m, and the deal is expected to help Yahoo in expanding its base in online video in parts of Europe and Asia.
Speaking to the Wall Street Journal, Dailymotion managing director, Roland Hamilton said: “We are unable to confirm, deny or comment on speculation regarding potential talks between Yahoo and Orange at this time.”
Dailymotion claims to be the 12th largest video website in the world and comprises both user-uploaded videos and has also commenced financing the development of high-quality content for the site.
In 2012, Dailymotion revealed that the company had signed a deal with Yahoo to view its videos on Yahoo sites.
Read the WSJ report here