Sports Direct has emerged as the front runner to snap up Brixton’s covered markets in a £30m swoop.

The Mike-Ashley owned business is in pole position to acquire Brixton Village and Market Row, which is home to 140 retailers and restaurants.

According to the London Evening Standard, the purchase is likely to be made through a Sports Direct vehicle, rather than by Ashley himself.

The properties generate rental income of around £1.3m per year.

It comes nearly four months after a company linked to Sports Direct bought land nearby, between two Brixton railway lines.

The scheme is being sold by property agents GCW and Lewis & Partners on behalf of listed landlord London & Associated Properties.