OFFICIAL: Juan Ayuso signs 5-year contract with Lidl-Trek - "Change always brings new energy and ambitions"

One of the most meaningful transfers of this winter has just been made official. UAE Team Emirates - XRG's Juan Ayuso has signed a five-year contract with Lidl-Trek where he is set to become a big leader and challenge his former team in the Grand Tours.

“Juan is one of the brightest young talents in cycling. He is already one of the best climbers and time trialists in the world, which makes for a very exciting package," Luca Guarcilena, team managers, said in a press release issued this Thursday morning. With the likes of Mattias Skjelmose and Giulio Ciccone onboard, the Spaniard won't be isolated in the American team when it comes to the Grand Tours, and the team's classics and sprint depth make it a very prominent threat for all terrains.

"At only 23 years old, he still has room to grow, and we are committed to giving him all the support he needs to reach his full potential. Bringing Juan on board is an important step in our long-term vision, and we are excited to see what we can achieve together in the years ahead.”

Ayuso's signing with Lidl-Trek had been heavily rumoured since the start of La Vuelta, with Ayuso and UAE reportedly agreeing to go their separate ways and break their contract after the Giro d'Italia. It was only a matter of time before this transfer would be announced, with no other team coming close to the offer of the American team.

For Ayuso, a rider with already so many big stories in his career despite his young age, it makes for an exciting new change, one which could bring more improvement above all physical, which could make a legitimate change now that he will not have to be fighting for his role in the team.

“I’m really excited. Joining Lidl-Trek is the start of an important new chapter in my career, and I’m motivated to keep growing as a rider. Change always brings new energy and ambitions, so I can’t wait to get started," he said. With Mattias Skjelmose likely to aim for the Giro d'Italia next year, Ayuso could have his eyes on the Tour when the planning begins next winter.

“From the outside you can see the Team has built a strong identity, with a lot of unity and ambition. The long-term project they’re putting together is something quite unique and special. It feels like a place where I can take the next step in my development, surrounded by riders and staff who share the same goals".

"I want to keep improving in the biggest races; the team has the ambition to become the best team in the world, so I’m really looking forward to contributing to that success. I feel super grateful towards the Team for giving me this opportunity and their confidence. I can’t wait to wear the Lidl-Trek jersey," he concluded,