The American investment firm behind the Yankees Entertainment and Sports Network is considering a bid to buy the Toronto Maple Leafs, according to a report.
The Canadian Press says Providence Equity Partners has inquired about buying the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan's majority stake in Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.
It is not clear whether the Rhode Island-based investment company has made a formal offer.
The Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan has said it is considering selling its 80 per cent share of MLSE, which owns the Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors and Toronto FC, as well as the Air Canada Centre and several other downtown properties.
Rogers Communications, which already owns the Toronto Blue Jays, has previously shown interest in buying into MLSE.
MLSE minority owner Larry Tanenbaum has the right to match any offer made on the pension plan's shares.
Providence currently holds an investment portfolio worth US$23 billion and has money invested in more than 100 companies across the globe.
Providence owns a minority stake in the Yankees Entertainment and Sports Network – a television network that broadcasts New York Yankees and New Jersey Nets games, among others.
With files from The Canadian Press
