Simon has offered $10 billion for GGP, with New York City-based Blackstone Properties rumored to join Simon as a financial backer, but the locally-based mall REIT instead said it would rather partner with Brookfield on an $8.4 billion reorganization plan. Vornado, led by CEO Michael Fascitelli, could join the Brookfield bid and in turn acquire some of GGP's malls, the Post reported. A Vornado spokesperson did not return a call for comment by GlobeSt.com.

The New York Times reported today that Simon has criticized GGP shareholder William Ackman, who has promised that his hedge fund, Pershing Square Management, would help protect Brookfield in the partnership deal. In a bankruptcy court filing, GGP's unsecured creditors, joined by Simon, say that Ackman's promise is a conflict of interest. Read that story here.

The bidding companies can put in their plans by May 19, said GGP in a recent bankruptcy court filing. According to the court-filed timeline, the REIT has said it will have creditors vote on a takeover or reorganization plan on Sept. 20, with Oct. 5 requested by GGP for the court to approve or disapprove the vote. Read about Vornado's possible bid here.