Haim Saban eyeing stake in Partner Communications?

Following the collapse of a deal which would have seen Hong Kong-based Hutchison Whampoa Limited (HWL) acquire a 75% stake in Israeli mobile network operator Partner Communications, Globes Online is reporting that media magnate Haim Saban is in talks to buy a controlling stake in the cellco. According to the local news source, under the proposed deal Saban is thought to be examining a multi-stage acquisition plan, with a view to purchasing a number of shares from Ilan Ben-Dov, who currently holds a 44.5% stake in Partner via Scailex Corporation. While many details of the prospective transaction remain unclear, it has been suggested that Ben-Dov will remain a shareholder in Partner, with Saban expected to purchase shares in several stages, while also injecting capital into the wireless carrier. Negotiations between the two parties will reportedly continue throughout the coming week.