South African businessman Tokyo Sexwale is considering running for the FIFA presidency, a spokesperson told Reuters.
Sexwale, a former political prisoner and close friend of late former South African President Nelson Mandela, has been approached regarding the top role at FIFA as Sepp Blatter prepares to step down in February.
Blatter is standing by the decision he made in June following the bribery scandal that has led to the indictments of top FIFA officials. Blatter himself has not been indicted and denies any wrongdoing.
UEFA president Michel Platini has announced his intention to run for the role, while Reuters reports that Sexwale will hope to win strong support from Africa should he decide to enter the race.
"Mr Sexwale has been approached to put his name forward as a candidate for the FIFA presidency by several highly placed personalities within the football fraternity including people from the private sector," said Peter-Paul Ngwenya of the South African's Global Watch foundation.
"He is in the process of consulting following which he will then make up his mind."
Sexwale has served on FIFA's anti-discrimination task force helped found the Makana FA, the unofficial soccer organisation for apartheid-era prisoners on Robben Island.
Ngwenya added: "[Sexwale] is humbled and honoured by these approaches and does not regard these lightly as they emanate from people he respects and has confidence in.
"Furthermore he regards the position of FIFA president as one with a heavy responsibility, more so at this time when FIFA is under a cloud following the corruption scandal.
"We are aware Mr Sexwale believes in unity within FIFA in the Mandela way and he will therefore not involve his name if this will result in the perpetuation of divisions that will further damage the FIFA brand."
Platini is publicly backed by the English, Italian and German FA chiefs. South Korean Chung Mong-Joon has also declared his intention to stand along with former Brazil great Zico and Liberian FA president Musa Bility.
Prince Ali bin Al Hussein of Jordan -- Blatter's only opponent last time around -- is also considering another bid.