Reports suggest Carillion, Balfour Beatty and Capita are sizing up bids

Carillion, Balfour Beatty and Capita are interested in mounting takeover bids for consultants Mouchel, reports suggest.

A major investor in Mouchel told Reuters the contractors were keen to snap up the business, which was subject to a third bid from Costain last Friday.

The investor said: “Capita, Carillion and Balfour Beatty are interested.â€

“Capita could be keen on buying the whole group but the others might just want specific businesses.â€

All three firms have refused to comment about possible approaches.