Caesars stock rose 6.21 percent to $8.89 after the New York Post reported Tilman Fertitta could make another run at CZR with the help of the company’s new largest shareholder, Carl Icahn.

Fertitta’s proposed reverse merger with his Golden Nugget was rejected by CZR in November as it would have saddled the company with too much debt and didn’t create shareholder value, CZR said.

Fertitta still doesn’t have a cash partner but would need to buy significantly less of CZR now as Icahn has increased his stake to 28.5 percent, the Post reported.

It is likely that Icahn wouldn’t sell his stake if someone like Fertitta bought it as Fertitta could come in and help trim CZR’s costs, which is a focus for Icahn, the Post reported. Icahn also wants CZR to focus on fixing its American business instead of expanding to Asia.

Eldorado Resorts has reportedly been interested in acquiring CZR, as well, with CZR giving ERI access to limited confidential financial information.

Get updates on this and all gaming news straight to your inbox with a subscription to Fantini’s Gaming report.

Email Alex Capitle at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a free 30-day trial.