Is Bjarne Riis about to leave the professional cycling world? According to a report in today's edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Dane has sold his cycling team, Team Saxo-Tinkoff, to Oleg Tinkov for a sum of close to seven million Euro.

Earlier this week, Bjarne Riis was dragged through the mud by Michael Rasmussen who accused him for knowing accepting organized doping on his cycling team in 2002 when it was known as CSC-Tiscali. Now the Dane may be about to cut his ties to the professional cycling world as he has reportedly sold his cycling team, Team Saxo-Tinkoff. According to Laz Gazzetta dello Sport, Russian businessman Oleg Tinkov who is owner of current co-sponsor Tinkoff Bank has paid Riis close to 7 million Euro to take over the cycling team.

If the rumours  are confirmed, it is a major surprise. Tinkov and Riis have had a troubled relationship this year, with Tinkov making several controversial and critical statements about the team's star rider Alberto Contador. The parties decided the part ways shortly after the end of the Tour de France, with Saxo Bank deciding to boost its sponsorship to cover the shortfall in 2014.

Tinkov tried to take control of the Cannondale team but the negotiations broke down last month, with Cannondale deciding to increase its investment in the cycling team. Tinkov later told Cylingnews that he was trying to set up his own cycling team but acknowledged that he would probably have to sit out the 2014 season.

Rasmussen's allegations have formed the basis for an investigation by the Danish anti-doping authorities into doping practices in Danish cycling that is set to be focused on Riis and his cycling team. Danish media have long indicated that the investigation could reveal damning evidence against Riis who has admitted to his own doping but refused all claims that he has been involved in any malpractices while working as a team manager.

None of the parties have confirmed the rumours but yesterday Tinkov gave a hint that negotiations may be ongoing, writing: “The mood is good! I will not say who and where. Secret trip."

Contador has a contract with the team until 2015 but Tinkov have gone as far as saying that he would consider staying onboard as sponsor if the Spanish star left the team. Contador and Tinkov may now have to put aside their controversies and work together in 2014.