Reports have suggested that department store chain House of Fraser may make a return to the stock market as takeover speculation surrounding the company continues.

The business is 49% owned by the representatives of failed Icelandic banks, who took control of the shares when previous owner Baugur collapsed in 2009.

Another 20% is owned by chairman Don McCarthy and his family. If a floatation goes ahead, the 161-year-old group could be worth between  £200 million and £300 million.