Potential Buyer in Dell Deal: Microsoft

Microsoft could soon grab one of the largest ownership interests in Dell, in the computer maker's quest to go private. Dell founder Michael Dell is looking to buy the company back from public stockholders, with the help of a private-equity firm, and sources tell the Wall Street Journal that Microsoft is now in discussions to possibly back the deal. No commitment has yet been made, but Microsoft would probably invest $2 billion; the deal is expected to cost at least $22 billion. Though Microsoft wouldn't be involved in Dell's daily operations, Dell would agree to power most of its products with Windows. (More Microsoft stories.)