In the latest in an always-lively round of transfer tips and rumours, Tour de France Maillot Jaune Alberto Contador has been linked to current Team Saxo Bank owner Bjarne Riis and could take over from the Schleck brothers at the head of the team.
All sides deny the talks but, according to Het Nieuwsblad, Contadors’ brother and manger Fran met with Riis in April. If the rumours are true, Specialized is the unnamed sponsor which will join up with Sungard to back the new team, explaining why the identity of the backer cannot yet be announced.
Astana have offered Contador an addition two to three years, but are reportedly insisting that he make a decision by Sunday, the day the Tour ends. Fran Contador has said in recent weeks that they are close to finalising that deal, with small details yet to be resolved.
However if Riis can entice Contador away, it would make up for the likely departure of the Schleck brothers to a new Luxembourg team, reportedly set to be backed by the Auchan chain of stores. Both Astana and Saxo Bank currently use Specialized bikes, but pooling the backing into one team would enable it to become a title sponsor, much as Cervélo is with its own team.
The Cervélo title sponsorship is widely regarded to have been a success, and has considerably raised the profile of the squad.
Contador is also on the wish list of several other teams. Caisse d’Epargne, Garmin Transitions and Quick Step were pushing for his signature last season and the latter has recently reiterated that it is still keen.
The 27 year old is in a strong position to win the third Tour de France and fifth Grand Tour of his career on Sunday. Fran Contador has said that the rider is keen to finalise his plans for next season, as he wants to be able to take a holiday after the Tour and clear his head.