Aug 12 (Reuters) - Canada's Gildan Activewear ( GIL )

is nearing a deal to acquire Hanesbrands ( HBI ), which could

value the U.S. innerwear-maker at about $5 billion including

debt, the Financial Times reported on Tuesday, citing people

familiar with the matter.

The talks are at an advanced stage and a deal could be

agreed by the end of the week, the report said.

Gildan Activewear ( GIL ) and Hanesbrands ( HBI ) did not immediately

respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

Hanesbrands ( HBI ) had a market value of $1.71 billion at Monday's

close.

Reuters could not immediately verify the FT report.