Netflix's (NFLX) proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is facing a broader-than-usual antitrust review by the US Department of Justice, Bloomberg reported over the weekend, citing a civil investigative demand and unnamed sources.

The DOJ is examining whether the merger "may substantially lessen competition or tend to create a monopoly," Bloomberg reported, citing a civil investigative demand it reviewed.

The subpoena was sent to an independent movie studio, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg.

The scope of the investigation signals that the review could take many more months, giving rival bidder Paramount Skydance (PSKY) time to strengthen its offer, according to the report.

Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery did not immediately respond to MT Newswires' request for comment.

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