FRESH from claiming the land speed record for a diesel car with the JCB Dieselmax, the digger company’s chairman, Sir Anthony Bamford, has set his sights even higher by expressing an interest in buying Jaguar from Ford.

In a statement, Sir Anthony, chairman of the construction machinery manufacturer, said: ‘I have expressed an interest in the purchase of Jaguar because I believe it is a very strong brand with great potential which at this moment I believe is not being realised.’

But Sir Anthony is not the only business leader being linked to the firm. Jacques Nasser, the former Ford chief executive who was ousted from the company five years ago, has also thrown his hat into the ring through One Equity, the private equity firm in which he is a partner. His bid is also believed to involve buying Land Rover.

However, Ford continues to remain tight-lipped about the plans, simply labelling them ‘speculation’. However, the firm is accelerating the strategic review of its business as it attempts to cut debts and provide a stronger platform for the future.