Merger mired 'til 2011.

With the year end looming, it's clear that the FCC will not complete its review of the proposed Comcast-NBC U merger until January at the earliest. But the five members of the regulatory body will have a draft copy to consider.

D.C. sources indicate a draft order approving the sale with conditions will be circulated as early as Friday for a possible vote next month.

A Comcast spokesman declined comment on the possibility of a draft order. But Comcast previously confirmed that the proposed merger would not be consummated this year.

Said government …