After interest in Pogacar & Evenepoel, INEOS Grenadiers switch aim to Primoz Roglic

INEOS Grenadiers are keen to bring in an elite-level, general classification challenger as they look to return to Grand Tour winning ways. After expressing an interest in the likes of Remco Evenepoel and Tadej Pogacar, they are now after Primoz Roglic.

According to a report by Wielerflits, INEOS Grenadiers owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is very keen on bringing in the Slovenian and it is believed that both team and rider's goals will be aligned as they look for overall Tour de France victory.

Jumbo-Visma have always maintained that Roglic is a key part of their future plans, Team director Richard Plugge recently stated that "Primoz has been our King since 2016", while sporting director Merijn Zeeman stressed that they have long-term plans with Roglic and that his departure is unimaginable at this time. Additionally, Roglic still has a contract in place with Jumbo-Visma's parent company, Blanco Pro Cycling, until 2025.

However, the situation has changed in recent weeks due to merger negotiations with the Soudal Quick-Step team and the possible arrival of young talent Remco Evenepoel. This has opened the door to the possibility of Roglic looking for a new team.

What makes this possible move even more intriguing is that several team managers have reportedly indicated that Roglic could leave Jumbo-Visma upon payment of a transfer fee.

Roglic himself appears to be open to a change of team and is in talks for a two-year contract. His main goal would be to win the Tour de France with his new team, although he also has in mind to defend his Olympic time trial title in 2024 and compete in the road World Championships on a mountainous course in Zurich.