Ne1 seems to be the thematic move here, it's the move I would play without much thought. The intention is Nd3 and Ba3 with (too much?) pressure on the c5 pawn.

Very early game stage, I'm sure its only a few moves out of opening theory. Perhaps the searched move was even a novelity when the game was played. So I don't think we have enough resources for an attack or any spectacular sacrifices.

The solution is likely to be a subtle, positional move. I have no idea.