McLaren's Eric Boullier confirmed his interest in Carlos Sainz, although the Frenchman admitted that the Red Bull driver's contract could prove to be a roadblock.
Sainz's contract with the energy drink company runs another year but the Spaniard appears reluctant to race at Toro Rosso for a fourth season, believing his talent warrants a drive with a top tier outfit.
"I know him and I like him," Boullier answered when asked about the prospects of hiring the 22-year-old.
"Everyone in this paddock is an option. You have to look at the contracts and if he is free, but I like Carlos and he's an option, yes.
"Saying that, we want to keep Fernando and we hope he continues with us, to be the champion we want, and we also believe in Stoffel," he added.
"Those are our real options."
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