There are reports that Horner is close to signing with Lampre-Merida. Some even use words like "100 percent". However, Brent Copeland, team manager of the Italian-based team, declined the rumor, saying no deal at least yet, as he tells tuttobiciweb.it.

"The new agent of Horner, Baden Cooke phoned me, to propose the signature of his rider." says Copeland, "We are not the only team to be contacted. After the phone call from Cooke, I spoke with our ownership, inviting them to reflect on this opportunity. There was a phone call and we're doing some evaluations, but we are certainly not the only team in this situation."

Horner is recently connected with multiple teams, first with Danish continental squad Christina Watches, then with Spanish pro continental outfit Caja-Rural. Both teams said no to the American rider. Naturally Cooke will have to initiate more contact with other squads.

Although Copeland denied the rumor that Horner is already signed with Lampre-Merida, he still holds high opinion on the Vuelta winner. "Chris, is who you appreciate as a person and as a cyclist. He might be useful to our team and to our young riders with his experience. Also we could use some help in Giro."