Qatar-based investment firm Delta Two has stepped up its pursuit of J Sainsbury Plc, having reached a deal with the pension scheme that removes the last obstacle to its £10.6 billion takeover, it has been reported.

Delta Two and the pension trustees have compromised on a £1.5bn security package, of which some £600 million will be paid up front in cash, according to the Sunday Express.

The remainder will come in the form of property sourced from Sainsbury's extensive portfolio, it added.