Microsoft CEO will be Nadella, will also replace Gates as chairman - report

Microsoft is almost ready to name its new CEO, and has settled on internal candidate Satya Nadella, business whisperers suggest.

Bloomberg cites "people briefed on the process" for word that Nadella will take Steve Ballmer's place as CEO in a move to be announced shortly.

Nadella, whose candidacy is said to have become much more certain with the last few weeks, is currently Microsoft's enterprise and cloud chief.

His name was touted among a group of four potential Microsoft CEOs bandied about in November. Of these, pack leader Alan Mulally has bowed out.

Microsoft is also considering having Nadella replace founder and first CEO Bill Gates as chairman of the board, the sources added, although independent director John Thompson is also a strong contender.

We had expected Microsoft to replace Ballmer by the end of 2013. The company has reassured investors it is moving as quickly as possible, and is close to a decision.

Thanks, IGN.