Intersport and Sports Direct have emerged as the most likely candidates to take over the Perry Sport and Aktiesport chains from the bankrupt USG group.

Intersport is interested in Perry Sport’s locations rather than the brand itself, retail expert Paul Moers told the Telegraaf.

Moers said he understood Intersport, which has 5,300 outlets in 40 countries, is keen to work with franchisees if it acquires the stores.

Sports Direct has 700 stores across Europe, of which 455 are in Britain. It currently has six outlets in the Netherlands.

Official receiver Toni van Hees said on Wednesday that there was a lot of interest in the retail groups and that most of the stores are profitable.