A mystery investor has bought a stake of almost 8 per cent in Moss Bros as the plot surrounding the embattled menswear chain thickens.

The 7.91 per cent stake was bought on Thursday through French brokers Credit Agricole Cheuvreux International at 5p a share, but it is unclear who the shares were bought on behalf of.

The acquisition comes just days after Laura Ashley upped its stake in the retailer to 5.96 per cent.

Baugur is still in the due diligence process after making a bid for the chain, which has been heavily opposed by family shareholders. Several parties are thought to be preparing to mount bids for the retailer or buy the 30 per cent stake held by the Icelandic investor.