An increasing number of Microsoft employees oppose the software giant's long-running attempt to acquire Yahoo, a report said Thursday. On Wednesday, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer said the software maker was "prepared to move forward alone without Yahoo" should weekend talks with the Internet company reach a stalemate.

Microsoft has given Yahoo leaders until Saturday to decide whether they will continue discussions. After February rejected Microsoft's initial $44.6 billion offer, Yahoo has said it might listen if the Seattle, Wa.-based company ups the bid.

According to the Wall Street Journal, opposition within Microsoft to the deal is led by the company's online unit who worry about whether acquiring Yahoo will take attention from what they feel or more important issues.

(AHN)