Canadian oil and gas producer Encana has signed a deal to acquire all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Newfield Exploration Company in a USD 4.1 billion deal that will provide the former with significant positions in some of North America’s biggest oilfields.In addition, Encana will assume CAD 2.2 billion of Newfield net debt. The strategic combination will create a leading multi-basin company and has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies.Subject to receipt of regulatory and shareholder approvals by both companies, the transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2019.Under the terms of the merger agreement…