Orient-Express Hotels founder James Sherwood is reported to be backing a £1.2 billion bid for the luxury travel company.
He has sold his right to buy the iconic Cipriani Hotel in Venice in the event that Orient-Express is sold, according to the Sunday Times.
Sherwood struck a deal with Indian Hotels, which last week launched an unsolicited bid for the group, the newspaper claimed.
Billionaire brother David and Simon Reuben, who own a 6% stake in Orient-Express, are reportedly understood to believe the offer undervalues the business and are considering a counter bid.