Ferrero, the European confectionery giant behind Nutella and Ferrero Rocher, is set to acquire WK Kellogg Co ., the maker of Froot Loops and other classic American cereals, in a $3.1 billion deal, according to a press release issued Thursday.

The Italian candy maker behind Ferrero Rocher and Nutella is nearing a roughly $3 billion deal to buy the breakfast-cereal conglomerate WK Kellogg, according to people familiar with the matter. Ferrero,

WK Kellogg, the maker of iconic American cereal brands, will be folded into the privately held owner of Nutella and Tic Tacs in a $3.1 billion deal.