LOS ANGELES, Aug 7 (Reuters) - The National Football League's deal with Walt Disney (DIS.N) in which it will gain an equity stake in ESPN in return for prime media assets is expected to face scrutiny from the U.S. Department of Justice, according to legal experts and industry sources.

ESPN has announced its new streaming service will launch Aug. 21. This move comes as streaming surpasses cable and broadcast in U.S. TV usage.

There are some rickety bridges to cross before the deal is activated but the deal doesn't begin util the 2026 NFL season.