Whirlpool Corp. and Maytag Corp. said Monday that the Justice Department is extending its review of Whirlpool’s proposed $1.79 billion acquisition of Maytag to March 30.

The companies said they “have agreed not to close the transaction” before that date.

Earlier Monday, The Wall Street Journal reported that the acquisition may face a legal challenge from federal regulators. The Department of Justice antitrust division is seeking sworn statements from business rivals and customers as it reviews the proposed deal.