Linklaters and Paul Hastings took lead roles as Chinese meat processing giant Shuanghui International tied-up with Mexican food company Sigma Alimentos in a joint bid for share control of Spanish processed-meat business, the Campofrio Food Group.

The deal, worth approximately $966m but still subject to approval, will see Sigma and Shuanghui combine their existing stakes in the company and offer €6.90 per share for the remaining stock. Together they currently own 82% of Campofrio’s shares.