The Astana cycling team have set their eyes on young Dutch talent Robert Gesink (Rabobank), who is currently sitting second overall in the Vuelta A Espana.

“Indeed we’re interested in Gesink. He is a rider for the future. Every manager understands that he will be worth a lot. Especially if you see what he is earning now. From my side there is definitely interest” said Rini Wagtmans, new manager of the Kazakh funded team, to Telesport.

When asked who he will hire if Tour winner Alberto Contador leaves, Wagtmans replied, “I’m going to surprise everyone. I think I will make the biggest step ever in regards to signing top riders.

“Astana will be even stronger than this year. All the teams will be astonished when I show them the possibilities.”