The European Commission is reported to have asked for more information in its review of Google’s proposed takeover of Motorola Mobility, in what was seen as an indication that the deal is under close consideration by the regulator.

According to the Associated Press, Google said that “we’re confident the commission will conclude that this acquisition is good for competition and we'll be working closely and cooperatively with them as they continue their review.”

The Commission has also sought input from other industry stakeholders, with a deadline of the end of this week.

The US$12.5 billion mega-deal is under regulatory scrutiny in a number of markets, and Motorola recently said that the transaction is expected to be completed early in 2012. In September, the US Department of Justice also made a request to Google and Motorola for more information, as part of its probe into the transaction.

It was noted that the in addition to the Motorola deal, regulators on both sides of the Atlantic are conducting a broader enquiry into whether Google has been abusing its position in the internet search and advertising markets.

The acquisition of Motorola will give Google access to a large patent portfolio, which will put it in a stronger position to defend itself against lawsuits brought by third parties.