This is far from a done deal. But it was very predictable that this attempt was going to be made.
After Continental Airlines left the Skyteam alliance for Star (because of the Delta/NWA merger) there was only one way to go. The next step will be for American Airlines to try and get US Aiways merged into them (although the synergies are tougher in that case). This would leave three large groupings in the US and Europe, all tied together in the worldwide alliances anchored by the respective mega carriers. These three worldwide alliances will control upwards of 70% of all traffic. That will only leave room for a potential fourth grouping which would tie together the low-cost carriers. This is still a few years away, but is inevitable. Only some non-aligned niche carriers will be left fighting for any crumbs.