Microsoft Signs Agreement To Scrutinize Possible Yahoo Sale

SUNNYVALE (CBS/AP) -- It looks as if Microsoft wants a seat at the negotiating table if Yahoo decides to sell part or all of its business.

To gain better access, Microsoft Corp. has signed a nondisclosure agreement with Yahoo Inc. A person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press that on the condition of anonymity because the agreement hasn't been formally announced.

The DealReporter and The New York Times earlier reported the arrangement.

Yahoo's board has been mulling the company's options since firing CEO Carol Bartz in early September. The alternatives include selling Yahoo's Asian assets, such as the Alibaba Group in China, and auctioning off the company entirely.

The DealReporter said Yahoo's board is scheduled to meet next week to discuss its next step.

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