Collapsed DVD rental chain Blockbuster UK is being eyed by restructuring firm GA Europe as administrators Deloitte prepare to close the first tranche of stores.

GA Europe is understood to have been interested in Blockbuster for some time and has connections to the business. GA ran the closure of 100 Blockbuster stores in Italy last year on behalf of the liquidator of that business.

GA bosses are understood to believe they can successfully run a rump Blockbuster business in the UK. The retailer hit the wall last Wednesday, endangering 4,190 jobs.

Deloitte has already earmarked 129 of Blockbuster’s 528 stores for closure, which would put 760 people out of work.

Alongside GA Europe, Blockbuster UK’s former owner Dish Network is also thought to be in discussions about buying back parts of the business.

Dish acquired former US parent Blockbuster Inc and its subsidiaries – including the UK – in 2011 after the US rental business itself called in administrators.

It is thought GA Europe is also casting its slide-rule over music retailer HMV, also in administration.

However restructuring rival Hilco is thought to be the frontrunner to take control of HMV, and has reportedly bought the retailer’s debt.

Property firm Savills has been appointed by Deloitte to advise on the Blockbuster portfolio.

GA declined to comment.

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