Microsoft almost bought Square back in 1999

[cosmic_drift]

https://www.resetera.com/threads/microsoft-was-moments-away-from-buying-square-in-99-you-should-read-this-new-making-of-xbox-book.20533/

Apparently this information was found in a book called "Unlocking the Xbox" written by Dean Takahashi.  You can read more information in the forum post.