According to the Pittsburgh Business Times, an offer to buy the Pittsburgh Penguins from Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle could be submitted within the week.

Sources told the Business Times that the identity of the bidders and the size of the bid could not be disclosed.

Lemieux and Burkle announced on June 3 that they had retained investment banking firm Morgan Stanley to help oversee a process where at least some of their ownership stakes might be sold.

"We conduct periodic reviews of our business and, because we have received several inquiries about the franchise in recent years, we decided to engage Morgan Stanley for their insight and counsel," Lemieux and Burkle said in a joint statement in early June. "After buying the team out of bankruptcy, ensuring its long-term future in Pittsburgh and creating a strong foundation for continued success, we believe it is time to explore our options."

Even if Lemieux and/or Burkle decide to sell, they have some interest in retaining some involvement or connection with the team.

"Our goal all along was to solidify the franchise both on and off the ice," Lemieux said. "Our star players are signed to long-term contracts, they've got a deep and passionate base to support them, and I believe the Penguins are well-positioned for the future. Regardless of what happens, I plan on staying involved with the team in some capacity, and Ron and I plan to retain an ownership stake."

Morgan Stanley is the same company that facilitated the sale of the Buffalo Sabres to Terry Pegula.