On a mission to win his eight Tour de France, American Lance Armstrong looks ready to bring on board a team to rival the 2009 Astana lineup.
In particular, the Norwegian press has reported that the Texan has been in negotiations with Saxo Bank’s Kurt Asle Arvesen as a possible member of new RadioShack team for next season.
In an interview with Dagbladet.no, Arvesen said, “Alain Gallopin [Astana director sportif who will move to RadioShack] called and was wondering what my team situation was [for 2010]. I told him that I have not signed a contract with anyone for next year and that I am open to all offers.”
Not long after his interview, Arvesen is said to have boarded Armstrong’s private jet headed for the Tour of Ireland.
Arvesen is a valuable captain for his current team, that includes this year’s second placed rider Andy Schleck, and known for his ability to take tough decisions on the road.
When asked about the possibility of working with Armstrong he Norwegian said, “Cycling has been a big part of my life, and Lance is a role model for all who take part in cycling. I had just begun to ride a bike when he won the World Championships in Oslo in 1993, and have followed his entire career.”
And while the seven-time Tour winner is one of Arvesen’s idols, he also understands that riding for a personality like him “won’t be a bed of roses”, but is open to see where the negotiations will lead.