Don’t call your stockbroker or even place an informal bet just yet.  The latest info on the proposed Google-Fairsearch deal represents a rumor twice over.  Still, a report’s indicated that the Department of Justice might decide to step in and stop the acquisition.

Sara Forden and Jeff Bliss wrote this afternoon, "The U.S. Justice Department is preparing for a possible antitrust lawsuit to stop Google Inc.’s $700 million acquisition of ITA Software Inc., according to people familiar with the situation."

Then the pair continued, "Department officials haven’t made a final decision about whether to sue to block the purchase by Google, owner of the world’s most popular search engine, said the people . . ."

So, according to individuals who may be several layers removed from the proceedings, the DOJ could interfere with Google’s acquisition.  Google’s lawyers probably aren’t packing their suitcases in response.

Still, Bloomberg’s a reputable news source, and this report is at least cause for concern among Google’s supporters.  Taken together with all the opposition that’s surfaced and the fact the DOJ decided to look into the deal in the first place, it increases the odds of a major problem occurring.

As always, we’ll be sure to report any significant updates.