More potential bidders are coming out of the woodwork for Crown Resorts Limited (ASX:CWN), with sources pointing to the C C Land Holdings Limited (SEHK:1224) as a party eyeing up the prized casino operator. Sources say CC Land could comfortably lob a knockout bid for Crown, but the probity checks would be extensive and extreme, given the current Australian government tensions with China. Sources say that investment banking advisers at Goldman Sachs are in discussions with the US-based group about its intentions for Crown.

DataRoom also understands that Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE:APO) has held talks with Oaktree Capital Group, LLC about joining forces with its US-based rival for a joint financing offer. Oaktree had earlier proposed a $3 billion line of credit should Crown Resorts choose to buy back “all or some” of the 37% stake in the company owned by James Packer, who is taking advice from Moelis. However, others say that Apollo has also been assessing whether to weigh into the bidding war for the entire company and has also looked at submitting a rival refinancing proposal to that made by Oaktree.

BGH Capital is no longer thought to be an interested contender for Crown, according to sources. Some say that the Credit Suisse and Flagstaff Partners-advised suitor has already been offered an unofficial signal that it would gain regulatory clearance. However, others say that Star, which sources say still counts Malaysia's Genting as a backer despite no longer being listed as a major shareholder, would not be a fitting buyer from the perspective of the regulators.

Most believe that the contest for Crown ultimately will conclude with the Morgan Stanley-advised Blackstone as the winner, given its financial firepower and expertise in the casino and real estate industry.