(Telecompaper) Telefonica has agreed to sell its operating business in Ireland to 3 Ireland, owned by Hutchison Whampoa. The total consideration for the acquisition is EUR 850 million, with EUR 780 million in cash payable on completion and a further additional deferred payment of EUR 70 million dependent upon achievement of agreed financial objectives. The takeover of its bigger rival takes 3 to the number two position on the Irish market, with an estimated market share of 37.5 percent, with over 2 million active customers. The combined operators had pro forma revenues of EUR 803 million in 2012, compared to just EUR 174 million for 3 alone. 3 said the deal will give it the strength to challenge Vodafone for the number one position on the market.