Remco Evenepoel linked with Ineos move, Quick-Step boss Patrick Lefevere reveals text from Dave Brailsford

Ineos Grenadiers are reportedly exploring a move for Remco Evenepoel, with Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl team principal Patrick Lefevere and the Belgian sensation’s father refusing to dampen the speculation. Evenepoel became the youngest road race world champion in 29 years in Wollongong, Australia last week to complete a stellar season that has also yielded victories at Liege-Bastogne-Liege and La Vuelta. Ad It is Evenepoel’s credentials at Grand Tours that are said to interest Ineos, with VeloNews claiming their billionaire owner Jim Ratcliffe is “desperate to land a potential Tour de France winner who can deliver immediate success”.

CRO Race'That was a piece of class!' — Milan takes opening win in CRO RaceA DAY AGO Lefevere said Ineos chief Dave Brailsford sent him a message after Evenepoel’s win at La Vuelta which hinted at a move for the 22-year-old. “It's simple,” Lefevere told VeloNews. “Dave Brailsford texted me, and he doesn't text much.

He said, ‘Congratulations, what a champion, and if you want to sell him one day, give me a call.’ That was it. No more and no less." When asked whether Brailsford might have been joking, Lefevere continued: “You can't see if someone is joking on WhatsApp. There was no smiley, no special face.

Just a few words. Other colleagues just congratulated me, but if Dave wants him he probably needs a lot of money.” Perhaps Evenepoel is the new Merckx after all, AVV's greatest year – Blazin’ Saddles Froome 'doored' on way home by driver on training ride, suffers injury Any move for Evenepoel would be expensive as he is contracted until 2026, but the report says Ineos are hoping to swoop “with immediate effect”. Ineos are without an obvious GC leader capable of challenging Jonas Vingegaard