Chris Soules has some competition to become the star of the 2015 season of “The Bachelor.” The lead for the coming season is generally announced during the “After the Final Rose” special (this year it will be next Monday), but reports are circulating that another once-eliminated contestant from the past is in the running.

According to E! News, producers for the ABC reality show want the opposite of the 2014 “Bachelor,” Juan Pablo Galavis. The 32-year-old former professional soccer player won fans over during his brief stint on Desiree Hartsock’s season of “The Bachelorette.” But viewers will remember that by the end of the season the single dad was considered the worst bachelor in the history of the series. (Click HERE to read about seven of his most controversial moments.)

“They are looking for the anti-Juan Pablo,” a source close to production told the website. “Definitely want a really nice guy this time around.”

So, who is in the running for “The Bachelor” 2015? As we previously reported, all signs seem to be pointing to 32-year-old Iowa farmer Chris Soules. Chris made it all the way to the fantasy suite date in the Dominican Republic with Andi Dorfman in episode 9. But while the other two remaining men – Nick and Josh – received invitations to stay the night with Andi, the bachelorette decided that her relationship with Chris just wasn’t on the same level. In one of the most emotional departures of the season, Andi sent Chris home at the end of the date instead of subjecting him to the rose ceremony.

The “Bachelorette” and “Bachelor” fan base seem to adore Chris, but the reality show is considering letting another alum return for a second chance to find love. The lucky guy is reportedly Arie Luyendyk Jr., the runner-up on Emily Maynard’s season of “The Bachelorette.”

Fans will remember Luyendyk as the race car driver who drove his way into Emily’s heart. But unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be between the two. During the final episode, Emily decided to send Arie home early, and ultimately ended up accepting a proposal from Jef Holm.

Would you like to see Arie as the next star of “The Bachelor”? Or are you on Team Chris? Take the poll below and tweet your thoughts to @AmandaTVScoop.

RELATED STORIES