I don't know how valuable Zenimax is, but I imagine it's very. I don't expect Sony to really be able to afford this without wanting this really badly. That is, this doesn't sound plausible.
I almost wish this sounded plausible though, because Zenimax isn't exactly known for good quality assurance, and they've done a lot to become less liked in the last few years. I can't imagine Sony making the situation worse in either regard.