Report: Google mulling role in possible Yahoo bid

Associated Press

Google is exploring the possibility of helping to finance a possible deal by others to acquire Yahoo. That's according to a published report by the Wall Street Journal on Saturday.

Google Inc. has talked to at least two-private equity firms about potentially assisting them to finance a deal to buy Yahoo Inc.'s core business, according to the story, which cited a person familiar with the matter, and did not identify the source.

The Journal said Google and prospective partners have held early-stage discussions, but haven't assembled a formal proposal. The source said Google may not end up pursuing a bid.

Messages that The Associated Press left on Saturday seeking comment from representatives of Google and Yahoo were not immediately returned.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)