Magic circle firm Allen & Overy has offered a position to four trainees from the beleaguered European arm of King & Wood Mallesons, the Gazette has learned.

In addition, future KWM trainees have been encouraged to apply through A&O’s graduate recruitment process, with one offer already being made.

A spokesperson for the firm told the Gazette it was ‘pleased to be able to help at this difficult time’.

KWM’s 60 trainees were told they would have to find another home last Friday, 13 January.

Until now, despite speculation that several major firms were in talks with KWM’s trainees, only City-based Goodwin Procter has confirmed it has made hires.

It hired five trainees, 15 associates and six partners.

Slaughter and May has received applications from trainees granted a contract at KWM in its next intake. Freshfields Bruckhaus Derringer is also thought to be considering applications.

KWM is expected to enter administration this week. Earlier, AlixPartners reportedly declined to be named as administrators due to concerns about funding.