Now Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley's Frasers Group has reportedly placed a bid of more than £30m for the sports firm, which could significantly boost his 880-strong shop portfolio. The entrepreneur is known for snapping up struggling retailers, having already acquired the likes of Jack Wills, Evans Cycles and House of Fraser. It has been reported that administrators at BDO are wanting around £20m, but there has been speculation that Mr Whelan's family could seek to buy back the business.