After a surprising victory at the 2013 Vuelta a España, Chris Horner was nevertheless left looking for a contract. His RadioShack-Leopard team transformed into Trek Factory Racing, and he wasn't offered a new deal. After a long saga, the 42-year old has now found a new home.

First rumours of an engagement with Italian outfit Lampre-Merida emerged almost a fortnight ago. Sports director Brent Copeland confirmed negotiations, but initially wouldn't say more than that.

A week later, Copeland was less reserved, telling CyclingNews: “We're awaiting the final OK from a key sponsor. I'd hoped it would be finalised on Friday but it now looks like it will happen next week.“

It is now clear that Copeland's timing was right: Today's edition of the Gazzetta dello Sport presents the signing of the American, and Lampre-Merida have confirmed the news on the team's Twitter account.

Horner will, unusually for a foreigner, lead the Italian team in the Giro d'Italia, and it appears reasonable that he will also be the blue-fuchsia squad's man for the Vuelta.

Will be updated ...