Sorrell deal angers WPP

Adland tycoon Sir Martin Sorrell has inflamed a row with former firm WPP after buying another business from under its nose.

Sorrell, who built WPP into the world’s biggest advertising company, snapped up Dutch digital agency MediaMonks through new venture S4 Capital.

The £265million deal marks Sorrell’s return after he dramatically quit WPP in April amid controversy. But it risks ramping up a war of words with WPP, which claimed Sorrell knew of its interest before he left.

WPP is threatening to withhold £20m of bonuses from Sorrell, claiming he has breached his contract. However, reports say Sorrell is prepared to fight his case.