The world's second-most popular search engine seems to be open to the Microsoft acquisition as company board members are scheduled to meet on Friday to discuss options, according to technology website NewsOXY.

Yahoo did not confirm the meeting, citing policy.

Outside advisers have urged Yahoo to accept the Microsoft deal, but some senior executives want to keep options open for a possible alternative tie-up with Web search leader Google.

However, analysts believe that Yahoo's board will say yes to the offer, but not without trying to get a higher price.

Yahoo is exploring a "wide range" of options in weighing the Microsoft bid, Chief Executive Officer Jerry Yang said in an e-mail to staff this week.

Microsoft is pursuing Yahoo to take on Google Inc, the world's most popular Internet search engine.