Team manager Ralph Denk said: “It is a great honour to welcome one of the most popular cyclist of our time in our team.

“That’s why we tried to provide familiar surroundings as far as possible. I think Peter’s trust in us proves that we did a good job the last years and have solid reputation in the peloton.

“Our partners BORA and hansgrohe are also two big German quality brands. This combination convinced Peter that we are the right team for him and his chase for even more successes the next years. I am very happy and sure that this partnership will be a successful one.

And Denk has promised more signings too, adding: “My goal is a well-balanced roster for the 2017 season.

“With Peter the Classics will be a big highlight for us. But we also want to play a role in the Grand Tours, therefore we still look for new signings.”

And with Tinkoff not continuing next year, Sagan is not the only big-name rider on his way to pastures new for 2017.

With August 1 marking the official start of cycling’s transfer window, Czech champion Roman Kreuziger will join Orica-BikeExchange for next season.

DS Matt White said: “Roman is a real game-changing signing for us.

“He is not only one of the classiest and strongest riders at WorldTour level, but he also brings a wealth of experience having worked for the best GC riders in the world.

“He will be one of the riders who can make the difference for our young riders at the Tour de France in the attempt to go for the podium.

“And at the same time he’s proved that he can win himself in both the Classics and other WorldTour stage races.

“We are rapidly developing into a team with real depth throughout the calendar, including in all three Grand Tours. Roman’s inclusion in our roster will be key in the years to come.”