Sainsbury's has been forced to deny that it is not in talks with another party regarding a takover, as its rising share price sparked a media rumour and counter rumour frenzy.

Shares in the retail chain began to increase in value last week and have continued their upward curve over the last few days; a number of potential bidders have already been touted.

Great Universal Group, which owns high street giant Argos, tops many lists, while close behind are US chain Target, perennial suitor Philip Green, the billionaire owner of Bhs, is predictably put in the frame by many newspapers.

One other possibility, it seems, is a management buyout. The rumour machine is only just revving up.

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