John Koo is looking to splash out nearly $390m on bulker and tanker newbuildings as he intensifies his comeback drive.

One industry source familiar with Koo's business said Glory Maritime International Holdings has signed letters of intent (LOIs) with three shipyards in China.

“Koo has charterers in mind for these newbuildings,” he said. “A Middle East sovereign fund will be funding Koo’s newbuildings.