The Microsoft and Yahoo! battle has been nothing if not confusing. Microsoft has attempted to buy Yahoo! several times. The most recent attempt was earlier this year.

Yahoo! let that deadline pass, and ran a small scale experiment with Google ads. There were some rumors leading up to this weekend that they might even make it a more permanent relationship and use Google for more of their ads.

Meanwhile, Microsoft was supposed to announce their strategy on Friday. Do they make a new offer, attempt a hostile takeover, or walk away?

Well, Friday came and went with no word from Microsoft. The rumor now is that Microsoft and Yahoo! are in talks that could result in a weekend deal. However, at least one source says that Monday is a more likely day to hear news from Microsoft, so this may just be media silence to make for more news on Monday.

If you're still confused, Dan Farber has a hilarious flow chart of the major players.