Soudal Quick-Step make approaches for De Lie and Van Eetvelt

After the departure of Remco Evenepoel, Soudal Quick-Step decided to change direction and return to their traditional identity. The spring classics became the Wolfpack’s main focus once again. Paul Magnier was already a major talent within the squad, but Jasper Stuyven and Dylan van Baarle were also added over the winter. And it may not stop there.

With De Lie, the Belgian outfit hope to bring in a leading homegrown rider. According to Het Laatste Nieuws, CEO Jurgen Foré sees the 24-year-old sprinter as the ideal addition alongside Magnier, who is a similar type of rider to the former Belgian champion. And with Tim Merlier turning 34 in October, the team are also keeping one eye on the future.

There are, however, rival suitors. Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe are also said to be interested in De Lie’s services. The German team have enjoyed a strong spring thanks in part to Tim and Mick van Dijke, Laurence Pithie and Gianni Vermeersch, but they do not yet appear to have a true marquee leader. The Lotto-Intermarché rider could fill that role.

Ralph Denk is already believed to be in talks with De Lie’s representatives. A fee of around two million euros is said to be attached to the rider. Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe would therefore view Christophe Laporte as a cheaper alternative, although the Frenchman reportedly has several options, including staying with Visma | Lease a Bike.

For Soudal Quick-Step, De Lie’s price tag is also a significant obstacle, but the team are looking beyond the powerful sprinter alone. They are also said to be interested in Lennert Van Eetvelt. With Mikel Landa advancing in age, the team may soon have fewer top climbers at their disposal, while the young Belgian could also be deployed in the Ardennes classics.