GameStop reportedly preparing bid to acquire eBay

GameStop is reportedly preparing an offer to acquire eBay, a move that could mark one of the most surprising deals in the gaming retailer’s history.

According to The Wall Street Journal, GameStop has been quietly accumulating shares in eBay ahead of a potential takeover attempt. The report said a formal proposal could come as soon as late May, though discussions remain ongoing and no agreement has been reached.

The possible deal has drawn attention because of the sharp gap in size between the two companies. eBay’s market value is significantly larger than GameStop’s, making any takeover attempt highly unusual.

If eBay’s board declines to back the proposal, the report said GameStop could take its bid directly to shareholders instead of negotiating through company leadership.

News of the potential move pushed shares of both companies higher, with eBay posting the stronger gain.

Neither GameStop nor eBay has publicly commented on the reported plans.

If completed, the acquisition would represent GameStop’s boldest expansion beyond video game retail, following recent efforts to broaden its business through collectibles, trade-ins and other ventures outside its traditional core.