The cycling world is abuzz with whispers of deals and contracts, as teams gear up for the busy post-Giro period. With the Tour de Suisse underway and the transfer window looming, the air is thick with speculation. One team that's making waves is XDS Astana, who are reportedly strengthening their classics block. According to cycling journalist Ciro Scognamiglio, Andrea Bagioli from Lidl-Trek is set to join Astana, and the Italian's performance on the Tour de Suisse's opening stage will no doubt put a spring in their step. But Bagioli isn't the only rider in the spotlight. Mikkel Honoré, currently nursing injuries sustained at the Heistse Pijl, is also on Astana's radar. However, the Kazakh team isn't the only one with their eye on the prize. Pinarello - Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team are also making moves, with Pavel Bittner, currently leading Team Picnic PostNL, set to join their ranks. This is a worrying development for Picnic, who are already facing an uncertain future after losing another key rider. Meanwhile, Movistar are also in the market, with Lorenzo Milesi on the verge of joining Soudal - Quick-Step. Milesi's strong performances at the Giro d'Italia make him a difficult loss for the Spanish team. But it's not just about the big names. Teams are also focusing on young talent, with Ramses Debruyne and Tom Donnenwirth both securing contract extensions. Debruyne's performances at the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes have not gone unnoticed, while Donnenwirth, who turned pro at 27, is seen as a potential gem by Groupama - FDJ United. The cycling market is a complex web of deals and rumors, and the post-Giro period is a crucial time for teams to secure their futures. With the transfer window opening in just over a month, the coming weeks will be filled with negotiations, extensions, and signings. It's a time of great change and opportunity, and the world will be watching to see who makes the biggest moves.
