Canadian gaming and lottery software outfit Contagious Gaming says its proposed acquisition of UK pools betting operator Sportech could create “a global leader” in regulated sports and race betting.

On Friday, the Liverpool-based Sportech revealed that it had received a cash-and-shares offer from the Toronto-based Contagious regarding a potential acquisition. No specifics were offered beyond the total consideration coming at a premium to Sportech’s Thursday closing share price of 62.6p.

Late Monday night, Contagious offered its first public statement on the deal, confirming the accuracy of Sportech’s release. Contagious said that it believes the proposed union could create “a combined, technology-focused sports wagering company and a global leader in regulated pari-mutuel wagering.”

Contagious also offered its rationale for making an offer, including the opportunity to become the “largest pure play sports focused gaming company” on the Toronto Stock Exchange.