Despite stating earlier this week that his preferred choice is to stay with Etixx-QuickStep in 2017, Tom Boonen has admitted he may look to a new team for a contract if he opts not to retire.

Lotto-Soudal has jumped to the top of the list of teams queuing up to sign the 7-time Monument winner, with bike sponsor Ridley willing to up their investment in the team to secure Boonen, according to Het Nieuwsblad.

The 35 year old rode Ridley bikes growing up and his home is near their base. The company has reportedly offered Boonen a job with them once he has retired, where he would help develop new products, as well as do PR.

Het Nieuwsblad also reports that the National Lottery, who sponsor the team, may be adverse to having Boonen in the team believing that Etixx-QuickStep fans may choose not to play the Lottery if they take Boonen away from the team.