Mark Cavendish's time with Dimension Data will come to an end this year, and talks over a move to Bahrain Merida (which will become Bahrain McLaren in 2020) are nearing completion.

According to Bahrain-Merida officials, no deal has been reached yet, but the 34-year-old British rider will likely join the team at the start of next season.

Cavendish was rumored to be moving to Bahrain-Merida at the start of this season, but eventually signed a one-year contract extension with Dimension Data.

However, another disappointing campaign and a strained relationship with team manager Doug Ryder resulted in his missing out on the Tour de France.

Bahrain-Merida currently has sprinters Sonny Colbrelli and Phil Bauhaus, both under contract through 2020, and according to Cyclingnews, the team does not believe that adding Cavendish will destabilize the team Cyclingnews reports that the team believes the addition of Cavendish will not destabilize the team. Colbrelli has his sights set on hill races and semi-classics for most of the year, while Bauhaus is still developing as a sprinter. Bauhaus is still developing as a sprinter.

A source told Cycling News that the move will be decided "fairly soon" and is "likely to happen."

If the transfer does happen, Cavendish will likely move on his own, without a lead-out from his trusted Dimension Data. Also, the future of Bernhard Eisel, now 38, is unlikely to move to Bahrain McLaren.

Wout Poels turned down the chance to remain with Team Ineos and will soon be unveiled as Bahrain McLaren's rider for next season. Mikel Landa has already been announced as Vincenzo Nibali's replacement.

With his move to Bahrain McLaren, Cavendish will be paired with coach Rod Ellingworth, who raised him at the British Academy, helped him win the 2011 World Championship, and guided him through his only season with Team Sky in 2012. He will be working with Rod Ellingworth, the coach who helped him win the 2011 World Championships and guided him through his only season with Team Sky in 2012.