Yahoo reportedly “open to selling itself to the right bidder”

Following the ousting of CEO Carol Bartz several hours ago, it appears Yahoo may be considering selling itself off.

In the Wall Street Journal’s report about Bartz’s removal, a ‘person familiar with the matter’ notes that “Yahoo is open to selling itself to the right bidder.”

While Business Insider’s Henry Blodgett claims, rather sensationally, that this means “Yahoo Has Put Itself Up For Sale”, that not quite the official line on the matter, just the word of one unnamed individual. Still, given the way Yahoo has seemingly lost all purpose and direction in recent years, while still holding some valuable assets and brands, it would be a logical option for the company’s board to consider.

However, the WSJ reports that an upcoming strategic review of the business “isn’t expected to include an evaluation of whether Yahoo should be put up for sale, but will focus on so-called “organic” growth, including the possibility of acquisitions or partnerships, the person added.” This is expected to include pursuing a bid for online TV service Hulu, a purchase that Google reportedly wants to make, too.

As we reported when the news broke, Bartz has been temporarily replaced by CFO Tim Morse while the hunt for a new CEO takes place.