Philip Deignan has climbed with some of the very best this year and with a string of strong rides and good wins under his belt thus far in 2013, he looks poised for a return to the highest tier of the sport, with Team Sky interested in him for next year.
By Graham Healy
With the rider transfer market for 2014 well underway, the international cycling grapevine is heavy with rumour that Team Sky are interested in signing Philip Deignan. A number of sources have confirmed there is contact between the team and the Unitedhealthcare rider.
The Donegal man, who is currently riding the Tour of Utah, has a proven track record of competing at the top level, and would certainly be a strong addition to the team.
The UK squad is looking to replace some strong riders who are supposed to be leaving at the end of the year. The Colombian Rigoberto Uran has already signed for the Omega Pharma–Quick Step team.
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Dave Brailsford team have signed the Australian Nathan Earle and are rumoured to be interested in the Colombian, Sebastian Henao. But they will also be looking to sign some riders with more experience, and Deignan fits that bill.
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In addition to winning a stage at the Vuelta, he has taken part in six Grand Tours, and worked in the service of the likes of Carlos Sastre and Levi Leipheimer.
In the last couple of seasons, Team Sky have developed a team with some incredibly strong climbers to help Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome to victory in the Tour and undoubtedly Deignan would be well able to assist Sky in the mountains.
After an incredibly consistent season, it was felt by many that Deignan would have an opportunity to step back up to World Tour level, and there are possibly other teams who are interested in signing the Donegal man.
We will keep you informed as news emerges of where Deignan will be for the 2014 season.
