Nicola Horlick has been revealed as the mystery party in talks with Bramdean Alternatives, the $178m alternative investment fund run by her asset management firm.

The disclosure marks the latest twist in the battle for control of Bramdean Alternatives. Vincent Tchenguiz, the property entrepreneur who is the largest shareholder with 28.8 per cent, has put forward other plans that will be voted on at an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting next week.