IBM-Sun talks may extend beyond next week-source

NEW YORK, March 26 (Reuters) - IBM's (IBM.N) talks to acquire Sun Microsystems Inc (JAVA.O) are continuing and may extend beyond next week, according to a person with knowledge of the matter.

The source, who requested anonimity as the person was not authorized to speak about the talks, said IBM was still examining Sun's business as part of its due diligence process.

An IBM spokesman declined to comment, and Sun was not immediately available. Neither company has confirmed that talks are taking place, although sources have told Reuters that the two sides are negotiating a deal that would bolster IBM's high-end server and software business. (Reporting by Ritsuko Ando; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn)