Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) and Allen & Overy (A&O) have picked up headline roles on the potential multi-billion takeover of UK water supplier Severn Trent by a consortium of investors.

The approach, which could lead to a bid worth a reported £5.3bn, has been made by a consortium comprising pension fund managers Borealis Infrastructure Management and Universities Superannuation Scheme, and the Kuwait Investment Office – a UK-based subsidiary of sovereign wealth fund KIA.