The European Union is concerned about Intel's plans to embed security features directly into its microprocessors, , citing unnamed sources.

Intel supplies the bulk of the world's PC chips, and the EU is concerned that if McAfee has "privileged access" to the security features it could put other security vendors at an unfair disadvantage, the Journal said.

The EU's antitrust regulator has "privately expressed concerns" about the deal during its preliminary review and could decide to subject it to a more in-depth examination, the Journal said.

Intel spokesman Chuck Mulloy declined to comment beyond saying that Intel is "continuing to work with regulators as they conduct their reviews."

A McAfee spokesman pointed to an update on the merger status McAfee posted to its website Thursday, which makes no reference to any concerns at the EU.