06:02 AM EDT, 07/09/2025 (MT Newswires) -- Merck ( MRK ) plans to acquire Verona Pharma ( VRNA ) for about $10 billion to expand its respiratory treatments, the Financial Times reported Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The proposed offer is reportedly $107 per American depositary share, a 23% premium over Verona's last closing price.

The deal would add Ohtuvayre, Verona's FDA-approved COPD drug, which analysts expect could generate $4 billion in peak annual sales, the news outlet reported.

The drug is also in clinical trials for additional lung conditions, the Financial Times reported.

Merck ( MRK ) and Verona did not immediately respond to MT Newswires' request for comment.

Shares of Verona were up over 20% in recent Wednesday premarket activity.

(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.)