Cavendish seeks move from Sky

Mark Cavendish has confirmed his desire to leave Team Sky less than a year after signing for the British squad.

The 27-year-old 23-time Tour de France stage winner and 2011 world champion is seeking an amicable end to his contract, which was agreed last October and has two further years to run, as his personal ambitions and Team Sky's do not match.

He aims to meet Team Sky principal Dave Brailsford for discussions over his future during the Tour of Britain amid rumours of a link up with Belgian team Omega Pharma-QuickStep.

It is understood the talks will centre around any severance agreement and whether Team Sky will demand compensation for one of the most coveted figures in the sport.

Cavendish has had a successful season, winning 12 times, including three stages at the Tour won by Bradley Wiggins, but it was that victory which demonstrated to the Manxman that his relationship with the British squad could not work.

Cavendish said: "We had this idea that we could have this British super team that could win stages and dominate.

"Dave sold me the idea last year but for some reason it hasn't worked out like that. It's difficult to do.

"It's like a long distance relationship with a girl. Everything is great but you live apart and it can't work out.

"But you want to be friends and you would rather the best thing happens so that everything can remain good and that you can stay close.

"I've been very happy at Sky. I don't want to compromise Sky and hopefully Sky won't compromise me."