A few transfer rumors have surfaced in today's press, too late to make the deadline of the real Gossip column. So how about a little supplement?
First, according to his agent, Giovanni Visconti does have a contract with QuickStep until the end of 2009, contrary to previous reports that he had not been renewed. The team has yet to confirm the signing, however. Liquigas is reportedly also interested in Visconti, and is following his contract status attentively. If the deal with QuickStep falls through, Liquigas might move to pick up the young classics rider.
Liquigas is also seeking to build up some support for sprinter Daniele Bennati. The team is in hot pursuit of Fabio Sabatini, who currently rides in Petacchi's trano at Milram. The young Tuscan has slowly developed into one of the strongest members of the Petacchi trano.
Meanwhile, at Milram, the management has realized that the team needs a facelift, and are actively working to reconstruct their roster. They have two riders in particular in their sights: Gerald Ciolek and Marcus Berghardt. Though the two riders remain for now under contract with Team Columbia (ex-High Road), Milram is prepared to spare no expense in securing their services, including paying the penalties for breaking their contracts. We shall see how that goes.
Speaking of money, Tinkoff has oodles of it. And they want to buy some bike racers. Topping the list at Chez Tinkoff is Russian Denis Menchov. Menchov would be an excellent fit for the Russian squad, though it remains to be seen if the feeling is mutual. Tinkoff has also joined the list of teams seeking the signature of Filippo Pozzato, whose contract with Liquigas ends this season. Last on the lengthy and expensive Tinkoff shopping list is sprinter Robbie Macewen. It's hard to imagine Robbie Mac leaving his Belgian home team, but Tinkoff would certainly like to try to lure him away.
Last, Martin Elmiger is confirmed as renewed with AG2R for one more year.
Sources are tuttobiciweb.it, wieleruitslagen.be