Cycling: Every year the marmot says hello. As in every season at this time, the rumor mill is churning. From August 1st, completion of transfers may be reported. Just in time for the Tour de France, there are always numerous rumors. The latest rumor revolves around the world champion and the German team Bora-Argon 18. According to consistent media reports, for example from www.radsport-news.com or the Belgian news portal The Latest News team leader Ralph Denk should strive for this mega transfer together with the bike manufacturer Specialized.
Is Specialized investing in Bora-Argon 18 for Sagan?
As it seems rather unrealistic that the reigning world champions would switch to a team in the second division, one would do well to question this rumour. However, explanations are found faster than expected, because if Peter Sagan's Tinkoff team should actually disband at the end of the year, the Slovakian will definitely be looking for a new employer. Why it could be Bora-Argon 18 is up to the bike manufacturer Specialized. This supposedly wants to reposition itself on the German market in particular and appear more present. This could definitely succeed with this change. It is questionable, however, whether Peter Sagan is ready for such a change. Due to his sprint strength, he needs a strong team around him. In order to set this up, Specialized would have to spend a lot of money. Official statements from Bora-Argon 18, Peter Sagan or Specialized are not yet available. However, since Bora-Argon 18 has formulated the goal of moving up to the World Tour next season, such a transfer would definitely make sense.
Degenkolb, Matthews and Nibali are also in the transfer carousel
However, the transfer carousel does not only revolve around Peter Sagan, but also around numerous other sought-after drivers. John Degenkolb (Giant-Alpecin), for example, has been associated with the successor to Fabian Cancellara (Trek-Segafredo) for a few weeks now. At the same time, Michael Matthews (Orica-GreenEDGE) is to come to Giant-Alpecin. This would fit, because Cancellara stops at the end of the season and Degenkolb could close the gap in the team, especially in relation to the cobblestone classics. Matthews, on the other hand, would be a perfect replacement for Degenkolb as he is also a strong sprinter on hills. The teams would not have to completely reposition themselves as a result of these transfers. Vincenzo Nibali (Astana) and Rafal Majka (Tinkoff), meanwhile, are being linked with the new Bahrain side. But, as always, we have to state that we don't know for sure.
