EasyJet says US bidder trying to buy it 'on the cheap' as it rejects £4.7bn offer

EasyJet has publicly rejected a £4.7bn approach from US alternative asset manager Castlelake, describing the bid as an attempt to acquire the airline 'on the cheap.' The label 'highly opportunistic' signals management believes the offer materially undervalues the business, a common posture when boards expect a sweetened follow-on bid or a competing suitor to emerge.

The key question is whether Castlelake raises its offer, walks away, or triggers a competitive auction. EasyJet's stock will likely trade with a bid-premium baked in until clarity arrives — rejection alone rarely ends M&A interest, but a firm 'no' from a major shareholder (notably Wizz Air's parent or another strategic) could reset the floor. Watch for any Schedule 13D filings or public statements from Castlelake in the coming days.