09:05 AM EDT, 10/13/2025 (MT Newswires) -- KKR (KKR) is opposing Italy's attempts to combine landline network operator FiberCop and its rival Open Fiber into a unified broadband network under state oversight, Reuters reported Monday, citing four sources close to the matter.

FiberCop was spun off from Telecom Italia in a 19 billion euro ($22 billion) deal last year led by KKR and Italy's Treasury, the report said. The government wants to merge FiberCop and Open Fiber to avoid duplication of investments and improve broadband internet services, Reuters said.

KKR is concerned about valuation and the risk of a lengthy antitrust review that could delay investment plans and potentially worsen its credit ratings, one of the sources told Reuters.

The Italian government is working to address areas of concern, Reuters said, citing a Treasury official.

KKR, FiberCop, and Open Fiber did not immediately reply to requests for comment from MT Newswires.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)