According to Belgian media, Wanty-Groupe Gobert team are highly interested in signing Gert Steegmans, after the rider was forced to part his ways with Omega Pharma – Quick Step. Manager of the Pro Continental outfit reveals that the 34-year old rider would significantly strengthen a lead-out train for Roy Jans, but as well could be provided with his own chances to shine.

Reportedly, Steegmans was enraged by the way Omega Pharma – Quick Step refused to offer him contract extension, after he rode in the Belgian team’s outfit for four seasons. However, it opened doors for Wanty, who are desperately looking for riders able to provide their sprinter, Roy Jans, with qualified lead-out.

“Thrown out by my own team,” Steegmans shortly commented his departure from Pharma – Quick Step in Belgian media.

“Steegmans would be a perfect man to ride in the lead-out of Roy Jans. And why wouldn’t he be provided with chances to show himself off?” Wanty-Groupe Gobert manager Hilaire Van der Schueren told Sporza.  

“Obviously, financially it’s difficult. We are not connected with huge, public companies in a way other teams are. What’s more, we offered bigger salaries to several riders whose contracts we have extended.”

So far, Wanty-Groupe Gobert have signed Marco Marcato in order to improve a lead-out of their sprinter, while Laurens De Vreese, Thomas Degand and Jempy Drucker are all leaving the squad.