"This thing with Microsoft is not a lock," a source tells us. Citing executives at NBC and Yahoo, this source says that as alternative to selling out to Microsoft, Yahoo is considering selling its Yahoo Media Group to NBC Universal and doubling down on search and display advertising, essentially "throwing the kitchen sink" into beating Google. According to this source, NBC and Yahoo have already started talks.

Disputing the rumor, a Yahoo executive told Valleywag: "Don't put stock into it. It's not going to happen." This exec says the rumor likely stems from Yahoo executives who fear for their jobs and don't want Microsoft to acquire the company. In a situation where they have little control — "It's up to the board now" — leaking possible alternatives to the press is one way to try and have a say.

Contact information for this author is not available.