Vettel at Mercedes: signed and sealed says insider!

Sebastian Vettel already has a 'pre-agreement' to join Mercedes in 2018 lying in the drawer of his office.

The claim is made by well-known F1 blogger and insider Leo Turrini, who is notoriously close to anything that has to do with Ferrari.

Although leading the world championship, Sebastian Vettel - whose Ferrari contract expires late this year - is rumoured to be in talks with Mercedes.

"Of course they're talking with Vettel," said paddock pundit Eddie Jordan.

Turrini, who publishes on his Quotidiano blog in Italian, agrees.

"It is no secret to anyone that after Rosberg's retirement, Mercedes contacted Seb," he said.

"During the pre-season test in Barcelona, Niki Lauda told friends confidentially that Vettel has a pre-agreement with the Germans for next season."

Lauda doesn't see Alonso at Mercedes anytime soon

But Turrini said Ferrari subsequently surprised with its strong pace, and therefore could ink a new deal with the quadruple world champion for 2018 and beyond.

It's unlikely anything definitive has been agreed between the German manufacturer and Vettel, but it's also very probable that exploratory talks have taken place.

Is it just an impression or does F1's silly season start earlier with each passing year?

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.