>>2060940I'd vote for option 2. No reason to leave Shimano 9 speed, it's the holy grail for parts compatibility and cheap parts. DESU you can safely go used if you want to save money.
FWIW I have an old cyclocross bike with
>9 Speed Sora brifters>11-34 aivilo cassette >9 Speed alivio derailleurShit just works.