Latest word on the bids to buy Vivendi's entertainment assets. Reports suggest that the bid by studio MGM includes the option of $8-9bn in cash and $2-3bn in stock. This increases the value of a possible deal and might make it more attractive to Vivendi bosses.
Crucially MGM haven't, at this stage, bid to take over Vivendi's music companies. Despite talking about pulling out of America altogether Vivendi's board is said to be less keen of off loading their record labels. Three of the current bidders for the group want the music company to be included in the takeover package – meaning MGM's offer might be even more attractive.
If successful in their bid the merged MGM-Universal would boast the largest film library in existence, roughly twice as big as that of the number two spot holders, Warner Bros.
Vivendi bosses are now considering all offers – though MTV owner Viacom is yet to submit their promised bid.