The deal brings brands like Nutella, Kinder, Tic Tac, Frosted Flakes, and Special K under one portfolio as Ferrero expands in North America

Ferrero, the European confectionery giant behind Nutella and Ferrero Rocher, is set to acquire WK Kellogg Co ., the maker of Froot Loops and other classic American cereals, in a $3.1 billion deal, according to a press release issued Thursday.

Michigan's WK Kellogg Co., the cereal giant, is set to be acquired by the Italian candymaker behind Ferrero Rocher in a nearly $3 billion deal, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday. A deal with parent Ferrero SpA, the maker of Butterfinger candy bars and Nutella hazelnut spread, could be finalized as soon as this week, according to reports.