NCTM has secured its second merger in a week with the acquisition of Italian real estate boutique DS&P, in an agreement reached today (12 May).

DS&P's managing partner Riccardo Delli Santi will join NCTM as a partner, as will Valentina Delli Santi. An additional 25 fee earners will also come on board when the tie-up goes live on 1 June.

Riccardo Delli Santi, a high-profile name in Italian real estate and public law advice, will take over as head of real estate at NCTM from Luigi Croce, as the firm aims to boost its capabilities in the practice area. Valentina Delli Santi will head the due diligence team in the real estate practice group.

The news of the tie-up between comes just a week after NCTM announced a merger with 30-lawyer independent outfit Janni Fauda, which saw eight partners join the firm in Milan and Rome in a boost for its litigation, M&A, restructuring and employment practices.

Following both acquisitions, NCTM's total headcount will stand at 310 lawyers, making it one of the largest law firms in the country.

Senior partner Paolo Montironi commented: "The integration of a firm of DS&P's calibre and experience fits perfectly with the firm's vision and overall strategy. The move highlights our strategy of continued independent growth while strengthening our service to provide the best possible assistance for our Italian and international clients."