Las Vegas-based Harrah’s Entertainment, one of the world’s largest casino operators, is reportedly looking to revive plans to move into the British gaming market, after a deal with Gala fell through in early 2005.

The Sunday Times claimed that the New York-listed firm, which is valued at US$11bn (£5.8m), is this time studying a proposal to buy two British casino groups, London Clubs International (LCI) and Stanley Leisure.

As previously reported in Leisure Opportunities, the two British firms have been in talks pertaining to a merger deal that could be worth up to £700m and which would create a combined portfolio of more than 50 casinos in the UK.

Harrah’s has so far declined to comment, dismissing the speculation as “market rumours”.

Harrah’s outlined plans to move into the UK market in February 2004 in a joint deal with Gala, but pulled the deal in January the next year after the government’s decision to limit the number of regional casinos allowed in the country. Details: www.harrahs.com

Photograph: Stanley Leisure is reportedly being eyed up by Harrah’s Entertainment