Geffen 'optimistic' about getting Times *

David Geffen told the Washington Post yesterday that "I continue to want to buy the Los Angeles Times," and a source close to the mogul says that "Geffen has spoken with [Sam] Zell since Monday's announcement and is optimistic that he may gain control of the Times, either in a spinoff deal or a joint-venture partnership." Post story

* What Zell says: They have met socially only once and "There's been no discussions with him whatsoever," Zell told the San Jose Mecury News. Zell reiterated that he has no plans to sell off pieces of the Tribune Company, but the New York Times claims Zell and Geffen have a dinner date Friday night.

Previously:
Why Hiller likes Zell
Today in Sam Zell