NewsCorp and Disney linked to Endemol bid

Rupert Murdoch's News Corp is believed to be interested in bidding for Endemol.

Spanish newspaper La Gaceta de los Negocios has reported that Murdoch is considering an offer for Telefónica's 75% stake in the production company.

Former Spanish prime minister and NewsCorp board member, Jose Maria Aznar, is thought to be advising on the purchase.

Previous reports had suggested Endemol founder John De Mol and Disney were in talks about placing a joint bid. De Mol sold the company to Spanish telecoms giant Telefonica for $7.1 billion in 2000, but recently bought back a 5% stake.

Though sources close to De Mol dismissed the claims, adding that "virtually every media company in the world" had approached De Mol to see if he was interesting in being a partner in a possible deal."

Endemol's current management, including chief creative officer Peter Bazalgette and chief operating officer Tom Barnicoat, are also expected to bid for the company, along with Endemol France chief Stéphane Courbit.

Telefónica is expected to respond in February, with the deal complete by the end of March.