TEXT-Yahoo statement on Microsoft

NEW YORK, May 18 (Reuters) - Yahoo Inc (YHOO.O) said on Sunday it is open to any proposal from Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O) that will benefit shareholders, after the software company said it was interested in an alternative to a full acquisition.

Here is the text of Yahoo's statement:

"Yahoo! has confirmed with Microsoft that it is not interested in pursuing an acquisition of all of Yahoo! at this time. Yahoo! and its Board of Directors continue to consider a number of value maximizing strategic alternatives for Yahoo!, and we remain open to pursuing any transaction which is in the best interest of our stockholders. Yahoo!'s Board of Directors will evaluate each of our alternatives, including any Microsoft proposal, consistent with its fiduciary duties, with a focus on maximizing stockholder value."