The payment would come in a couple of different forms. YouTube has discussed directly financing some programs, and it has also offered to allot a portion of major brand deals to creators. Though YouTube hasn’t finalised deals with any creators, it is close an agreement with several partners, said the people, who declined to be identified because the negotiations are sensitive and ongoing.

Netflix is signing non-exclusive licensing deals with top YouTube creators like Ms. Rachel and the Stokes Twins, not the other way around.

YouTube is making its biggest move yet to defend its turf as Netflix and other streamers do deals with star creators.

YouTube is offering significant payments to popular creators for exclusive content. This move aims to counter Netflix's aggressive efforts to attract top YouTube stars. Netflix…