The deal creates Germany’s third-largest streamer and strengthens RTL’s position as a gatekeeper for international platforms entering Europe’s top TV market. "HBO Max is launching in Germany next year,

German media giant RTL Group has signed an agreement to buy Comcast-owned pay-TV acquire Sky Deutschland. The deal brings together two top media brands in the region, creating a business with roughly 11.5 million paying subscribers.

European broadcaster RTL Group said on Friday it would buy Sky Deutschland, in a deal that combines Sky's sports and streaming offerings with RTL's news and entertainment brands to create a business with 11.