Private equity giant KKR has confirmed plans to buy the company behind health websites Medscape and WebMD in a deal worth 2.8 billion US dollars (£2.1 billion). The takeover will be led by Internet Brands - a KKR portfolio company - which has offered WebMD 66.50 US dollars (£51.03) per share, representing a 20% premium on its closing share price on July 21. Internet Brands chairman Herald Chen said the firm was "pleased to be investing behind the experienced WebMD management team and trusted WebMD platforms. The combined portfolio of leading vertical internet assets will be a powerful one". The deal is expected to be completed during the fourth quarter.