Linklaters has climbed to the top of the rankings for European M&A ahead of City rivals Clifford Chance (CC) and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer after winning roles on five of the 15 largest deals of last quarter.

The magic circle firm has secured the top place for European M&A by both value and volume in Mergermarket’s Q1 2008 rankings, advising on 40 deals worth E172.8bn (£136.4bn).