Google Inc. on Tuesday denied a report that is was in talks that could lead to its buying the Napster music subscription service, according to the Reuters news service.

I am looking for the source of this rumor.. any pointers.. I search NYT , but cant find any reference.

It looks like this rumor originated in the New York Post, not New York Times:

"January 31, 2006 --

EXCLUSIVE

Internet giant Google is considering an extensive alliance with Napster, which could include an outright acquisition, as it plots its move into the digital music world, The Post has learned. "
http://www.nypost.com/business/62583.htm

Thanks. These darn msm media kill me at times!! :)-