Monster's deal to partner with the new owners of Philadelphia Media Holdings "would work with other newspapers," but probably makes more sense with papers in smaller markets, Monster CEO Andrew McKelvey told Reuters. McKelvey also said the Philadelphia deal was opportunistic and that no other newspapers are waiting in the wings.

"Would we consider a newspaper in California, or a newspaper in the Midwest? Sure," McKelvey told Reuters. But it would more likely be a paper in a small- to mid-sized market, where papers have maintained a commanding lead over Monster and other job portals, but could benefit from their superior technology and national advertising.

"The local marketplace is tough, particularly when you get into C and D markets," said McKelvey. "So what we’re looking at is, would it make sense to partner with some newspapers in those markets, because we’re really not there now."