XDS Astana have announced the signing of Greek champion Nikiforos Arvanitou in an under-the-radar signing. The 23-year-old officially joins the team after initially coming on board as a trainee in August. Making an impact during his initial signing, he's been rewarded with a two-year deal.

A three-time Greek champion, Arvanitou boasts a fast finish and is being lined up as a lead-out man and even a potential sprint option with the WorldTour team. Since signing, he has already picked up top tens at the Arctic Race of Norway and Tour de Kyushu. He also finished 11th in a Tour of Britain stage.

His encouraging form with Astana also follows his performances at the Tour of Slovenia that saw him take a podium after two top tens at the Tour de Hongrie while riding with Continental team United Shipping.

“We had the opportunity to assess Nikiforos both in training and in races during his traineeship. He made a very good impression – a young, strong rider, always ready to help his teammates and give 100% to achieve the goal," Alexandr Vinokurov, General Manager of XDS Astana Team, said.

Vinokurov happy with new signing

"It is clear that Arvanitou has potential both as a domestique and lead-out rider, as well as a fast rider capable of achieving success on his own. Two years of hard work lie ahead, but he has every chance of becoming a good professional rider.”

Arvanitou is delighted to join the team, noting his support for the structure while growing up. He declared his confidence in the team as the right place to be as he looks to reach the next level.

“I am truly happy to join XDS Astana Team as a rider of the main roster. For me, XDS Astana Team is a team with a rich history and tremendous success over all these years," Arvanitou said.

"I supported this team when I was a child, and now joining the WorldTour with them is a real dream come true. This year, I had the opportunity to attend a training camp and race several events with the team as a trainee, and I immediately felt, as they say, like I was in the right place."