CHARLOTTE -- There's a new contender to buy the Carolina Panthers.

According to CNBC, he's Fanatics owner and internet entrepreneur, Michael Rubin.

Appaloosa Hedge Fund founder David Tepper, a minority owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, is also said to be a serious contender.

The Panthers announced the team's sale in December after founder Jerry Richardson stepped down after accusations of workplace misconduct.

NFL owners say they're hoping to approve a deal at their spring meeting in May.