Ubisoft reportedly seeking to acquire Arkane Lyon from Xbox

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GamesIndustry.biz reports that Ubisoft is reportedly seeking to acquire Arkane Lyon from Xbox. The report, citing Bloomberg sources, says Ubisoft is one of three companies in talks to buy the studio. GamesIndustry.biz also reports Arkane Lyon's consultation period with Xbox was extended from November to December while development on Marvel's Blade continues. The piece notes Ubisoft is undergoing a restructuring into six "Creative Houses" and that Xbox has considered selling Arkane Lyon to its management, as it previously did with Double Fine Productions and Compulsion Games.

What happened: GamesIndustry.biz, citing Bloomberg, says Ubisoft is one of three companies in negotiations to acquire Arkane Lyon from Xbox.
Why it matters: GamesIndustry.biz reports Arkane Lyon's consultation period with Xbox was extended from November to December while Marvel's Blade is in development.
Context: The report says several forms of takeover are being considered and that Xbox has previously spun studios back to management (Double Fine Productions and Compulsion Games); GamesIndustry.biz notes Double Fine cut 23 positions after becoming independent.
What next: The report does not confirm any completed sale or name a buyer; it is not yet confirmed which company, if any, will acquire Arkane Lyon.

What changed

GamesIndustry.biz reports, citing Bloomberg sources, that Ubisoft is among three companies in talks to acquire Arkane Lyon from Xbox.
The studio's consultation period with Xbox was extended from November to December, according to the same report, with GamesIndustry.biz linking the extension to continued development on Marvel's Blade.

Timeline

GamesIndustry.biz states the consultation period was extended from November to December (the report does not provide additional dated milestones).

Limits

GamesIndustry.biz reports that several takeover options are being considered and that Xbox has explored selling Arkane Lyon to its management, but the report does not confirm any sale or final decision.
Examples cited by GamesIndustry.biz of prior Microsoft spinouts include Double Fine Productions and Compulsion Games; the report notes Double Fine cut 23 positions after its independence.