Will JJB Sports go private?

JJB Sports PLC founder and chairman David Whelan on Tuesday revealed he is "seriously considering" taking the company private. Shares in leading sports apparel and equipment chain consequently jumped nearly 20 per cent. Whelan, whose family holds a 39 per cent stake in the company, said he has informed JJB's non-executive directors of his intentions.

The company said in a statement: "The non-executive directors of JJB Sports have been informed by Dave Whelan that he is seriously considering making an offer for the share capital of JJB Sports not already owned by his family. Should an offer be forthcoming a further announcement will be made at that time."