DirecTV is currently in advanced discussions to acquire their rival, Dish Network, as part of a merger. The companies were previously the two biggest satellite television providers in the United States.

DirecTV and Dish Network -- two longtime rivals that have explored joining up at various times for decades -- may be headed to the altar.

The Wall Street Journal reported DirecTV could acquire rival Dish, creating one of the nation’s largest pay-TV providers, in a deal that could be announced as soon as Monday.

DirecTV and Dish are in advanced talks to merge in a deal that would create the largest US pay-TV provider, with almost 20 million subscribers, people familiar with the matter said.

Shares of EchoStar soared Friday on a report that its Dish is in advanced talks to be acquired by satellite-TV rival DirecTV.