Yahoo & Microsoft Search Deal Back On?

Search Engine Land reports that the Search deal between Yahoo and Microsoft could be back on and “very close” to a deal. See below for a quote:

“There are several reports tonight that Yahoo and Microsoft are close to consummating a search and advertising deal. 24/7 Wall Street cites an investment banker who says a deal is “imminent.” All Things Digital says an agreement is “down to the short strokes,” but also points out that the companies have been down this road before.

Both reports speculate that the deal will include a large upfront payment to Yahoo — the “boatloads of money” that Yahoo CEO Carol Bartz has said a deal would require — and additional future payments in exchange for Microsoft taking over Yahoo’s search and search advertising business. 24/7 Wall Street cites sources who say Yahoo will get $3 billion upfront….”

Read the rest here.