NBCUniversal is reportedly exploring the idea of buying MSNBC.com from Microsoft. Citing several sources with "first-hand knowledge" of the negotiations, Adweek says NBCUniversal is discussing a buyback play with Microsoft. MSNBC.com was originally launched as a joint venture between NBC and Microsoft back in 1996 alongside the MSNBC network. Although NBC now owns the majority of Microsoft's stake in the MSNBC network, the MSNBC.com site is still a joint venture between the two firms.

Adweek says the partnership could be unwound by the summer with a deal to ensure MSNBC.com keeps its placement on Microsoft's MSN portal at MSN.com. NBCUniversal parent company Comcast is reportedly conducting its due diligence, suggesting that the talks have progressed somewhat. MSNBC.com and NBCUniversal spokespeople refused to comment on the report.