Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are in merger talks to create the largest railroad in North America that would connect the East and West Coasts.

Railroad operator Union Pacific is exploring a deal to buy smaller rival Norfolk Southern , the Wall Street Journal reported, in a merger that would bolster the industry leader's heft and likely draw intense regulatory scrutiny.

Union Pacific is in talks to merge with Norfolk Southern, The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday, in a deal that would shake up the railroad business in America. The Journal cited people familiar with the matter.