The CEO of Activision Blizzard Robert Kotick is expected to leave the company when Microsoft takes control.

That's according to reporting from the Wall Street Journal, which says that sources claim that Kotick is set to depart once the deal closes. In its announcement, Microsoft said that Kotick will continue to head up Activision Blizzard, but when the deal is finalised, that company will be reporting to Xbox boss Phil Spencer.

The New York Times has reported that Kotick could stay on in an "advisory role" and according to tech correspondent Karen Weise, the exec has said that "Post close I will be available as needed."

Since the filing of a lawsuit alleging a toxic working culture at Activision Blizzard – and news emerging that Kotick himself had known about incidences of misconduct and harassment – have led to calls for the CEO to resign.

Regardless – as reported by Kotaku – Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has praised Kotick for his contributions.

“Over more than 30 years as CEO of Activision Blizzard, Bobby Kotick has built the company into one of the world’s most successful and influential entertainment companies," Nadella said. "And I’m grateful to his leadership and commitment to real culture change.”