Visma Lease a Bike eyes Eritrean champion for the 2027 season
Monday, 06 July 2026 at 03:00 Team Visma | Lease a Bike has identified Natnael Tesfatsion as a potential signing for 2027 as the Dutch team looks to strengthen its mountain support for Jonas Vingegaard, according to journalist Daniel Benson.
Benson states that Visma has spent several months searching for a climber capable of reinforcing its Grand Tour squad. Although Jai Hindley had previously been linked with the team as a possible replacement for Simon Yates, Benson reports that negotiations never progressed significantly and that the Australian is now expected to remain with Red Bull–BORA–hansgrohe.
Movistar aims to retain Eritrean rider
Visma has instead turned its attention to Tesfatsion, whose development since joining Movistar Team has reportedly attracted interest. The Eritrean is viewed as a versatile rider capable of supporting leaders in the high mountains while providing consistency throughout stage races.
However, a transfer is far from certain. According to Benson, Movistar is working to extend Tesfatsion's contract and considers him an important part of its long-term project. The Spanish team hopes to secure a renewal before rival offers gain momentum.
No agreement has yet been reached, leaving Tesfatsion's future unresolved. His situation is expected to remain one of the transfer market's key storylines as teams continue negotiating potential moves during the Tour de France ahead of the 2027 season.