Disney held talks to buy 21st Century Fox

The media company giants are not currently talking but have discussed the possibility in the last few weeks, according to CNBC, who cite anonymous people "familiar with the matter" as sources.

Neither Disney nor Fox has commented.

Under US rules, Disney would not be able to own two broadcast networks – it currently owns ABC – and would unlikely purchase all of Fox.

Disney would not look to buy Fox's sports properties in order to avoid breaking anti-trust laws with ESPN network, which the company currently owns.

Buying Fox's movie and TV production studios, cable networks FX and National Geographic were discussed, CNBC said.

Disney and Fox co-own streaming service Hulu along with Comcast and Time Warner.

Yesterday, Ofcom announced that Fox News broke two British broadcasting regulations.

An episode of Hannity and an episode of Tucker Carlson Tonight were deemed to have breached by the UK media regulator.

It is believed to be a setback for the Murdoch family who are attempting to purchase 61% of Sky with 21st Century Fox to take full control.

Last year, The Walt Disney Company held assets worth $96billion (£70bn).