Lion Nathan says signs deal with Kirin

WELLINGTON, May 11 (Reuters) - Australian brewer Lion Nathan Ltd LNN.AX (LNN.NZ), said on Monday it had agreed the terms for a $2.5 billion takeover by Japanese brewer Kirin (2503.T)

Lion Nathan, Australia's No.2 beer maker had been in talks with Kirin, which already owns 47 percent of the company's shares, since late last month.

Lion said the trading halt on its stocks would be lifted just prior to the opening of the New Zealand stock exchange.

Kirin's offer for the remaining 53 percent of Lion Nathan is worth A$12.22 a share, including A$11.50 a share in cash from Kirin and dividends totalling A$0.72 if the deal goes ahead.

The overall offer values the buyout at about A$3.5 billion. ($1=A$1.30)