Rumour mill round-up: Antón and Nieve's big choice

It was reported earlier this week that Astana were keen on signing Mikel Nieve as Vincenzo Nibal's right-hand man for the coming seasons. According to various reports this weekend, Giuseppe Martinelli might indeed take on not only Nieve, but also fellow ace climber Igor Antón.

The usually reliable BiciCiclismo bring the news, writing "the two riders might end up joining the same team". Allegedly, they both have numerous offers on the table, but the cash-rich Kazakh team are thought to be in the driver's seat to secure their signatures.

Any deal for the pair is likely to be conducted during the Vuelta a España.

Sky is also interested in the duo, but said website claim they're yet to make a firm offer. Omega Pharma-QuickStep, who've already bolstered their Grand Tour department with the signing of Rigoberto Urán, also hold a strong interest in Euskaltel's standout climbers.

In other transfer related news, it appears ever likelier that both Izagirres will end up at Movistar next year.

Gorka is reported to have penned a deal already, and team head Eusebio Unzúe was quoted earlier this week as saying they're looking to bring in "five, maybe six more riders". Speaking of the brothers from Ormaiztegi, Unzúe said "they should both sign for us".