There may not be an actual private buyout at all, if he gets his way

May 13, 2013 12:28 GMT  ·  By

Michael Dell has been trying to turn Dell into a private company controlled by himself and with no shareholders to cater to.

Unfortunately, his hopes of a quick takeover were dashed when billionaire activist Carl Icahn and Southeastern Asset Management made a counteroffer.

Barely avoiding a hostile takeover, Michael Dell was not able to get the man out of the race after all.

Most recently, Icahn made another offer, one that has been rather vaguely detailed in the press. Basically, Icahn offered shareholders a better price, but doesn't intent to force them all to sell. The process would presumably leave the company public.

Much to the current CEO's likely dismay, the Special Committee of the Board of Directors of Dell Inc. is showing interest, having requested additional information on the proposal.

Michael Dell will probably have to make a better offer if he hopes to still get his way, now that there is no third option.