Google said to be making deal on ITA Software merger

Google is reportedly nearing a deal with the US government to clear its acquisition of ITA Software.

Reuters and The Wall Street Journal cited unnamed sources in reporting that the search firm is in talks with the US Justice Department on a compromise which would allow the company to move forward with the £440m deal.

Under the reported terms of the acquisition, Google would agree to allow the Justice Department oversight of its operations, and would vow not to use its market position to gain an unfair advantage over rival services.

The deal could be announced in a matter of days, according to reports. No estimate was given on when the acquisition could be finalised.

The saga over the merger dates back to last July, when Google announced its intention to purchase travel information service ITA for $700m.

By January, reports surfaced that the Justice Department was examining the deal and considering a suit to block the acquisition.

Google has seen increased attention from anti-trust authorities in recent months. Rival firms, including Microsoft, have accused the company of unfair dealings.