JD Sports has acquired online-only sports specialist Deporvillage, adding to its growing international empire.

JD Sports has agreed to take an 80% stake in Deporvillage, which is based in Spain, for €140.4m. 

Deporvillage, which primarly sells cycling, running and outdoor equipment, launched in 2010 and has since expanded to trade through dedicated sites in France, Germany, Italy, Portugal and the UK as well as Spain. 

Last year Deporvillage recorded pre-tax profits of €7.7m on sales of €117.8m.

Deporvillage was founded by entrepreneurs Xavier Pladellorens and Ángel Corcuera, who will retain a 20% holding following the deal with JD Sports and will stay on as chief executive and chief purchasing officer respectively.

JD said that the acquisition of Deporvillage, would “enhance the group’s authenticity in key sports categories, significantly increase its digital capabilities in the sports equipment market and complement the ongoing positive developments in the group’s existing Sprinter and Sport Zone fascias.”

JD Sports chief executive Peter Cowgill said: ”Deporvillage has a strong consumer-centric approach and is the market leader in its categories in Spain with significant potential for further international development. We look forward to closing the transaction and welcoming the Deporvillage team to the group.”

Completion of the deal will be subject to antitrust clearance.