Is Romania the new rock 'n' roll?

Linklaters shrugged off news of the loss of a five-person team in Bucharest, but the firm has suffered a steady drip of departing lawyers in Romania, which is the latest hot jurisdiction. And Linklaters now has competition in that corner of Europe.

Clifford Chance opened in the Romanian capital last year by hooking up with former Linklaters' lawyer Daniel Badea and local speculation is wondering whether latest departee Adrian Bulboaca wants to repeat the trick.

Bulboaca was told that he would not make partner at Linklaters, but he is thought of as a pretty good client-winner and has launched with a decent-sized team.

Allen & Overy offloaded its most obscure office, in Albania, two years ago and has stated its wish to expand in Eastern Europe, but the smart money is on Freshfields - once it has got its shop in order.