According to CNBC, Verizon is in “deep talks” to acquire Alltel, the nations 5th largest wireless carrier for an estimated $27 billion dollars.

TPG and Goldman Sachs took Alltel private last November in a $27.5 billion deal it is not expected that Verizon will pay any more than this even though Alltel has increased its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (Ebitda) by 10 percent since the leveraged buyout was announced last may.

If Verizon pulls an Alltel acquisition off it, once again, will be the nations largest wireless provider. Verizon currently sits in the number two spot behind AT&T by the slimmest of margins and an Alltel deal will definitely put them over the top.