It is not so hard for another party to work out offers, before Teck's intentions are known.

Just work out all 3 percent back-ins.

If someone else was interested they would be doing their preliminary work now. It could get compedative if Teck leaves much on the table.

So the hot girl may be going to the prom with someone else, do you wait for the event or do you get to know her now just in case she doesn't marry the guy.

What all this says to me is ES maybe somewhat along in "discussions" and there is really no point in someone else moving in.