Asia Tech Wire (Sep 2) -- Blackstone is close to a deal to buy Australian data center operator AirTrunk for A$20 billion ($13.5 billion), including debt, according to Bloomberg.

It could be one of the biggest digital infrastructure deals so far this year.

Blackstone emerged as the preferred buyer for AirTrunk after outbidding other bidders, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter.

The New York-based alternative asset manager, along with AirTrunk owners Macquarie and PSP Investments, are negotiating the final details of the deal, and could sign an agreement as early as this week, the people said.