Alonso Williams bound? Let's keep it real...

©McLaren

The hottest rumor in Spa's paddock yesterday was that Fernando Alonso had been offered a seat at Williams for 2018.

Needless to say, wacky rumors abound over the summer, that's why they call it the silly season.

But there's no disputing the fact that Alonso is considering all his options for next year as he closes in on his decision deadline.

On paper, Williams would appear as a better choice than McLaren in the mid-term.

There's still a fair amount of uncertainty surrounding Honda's ability to deliver a proper power unit to Woking, while McLaren's alternatives in the engine department are almost non-existent following Renault's comments that it cannot supply a fourth team.

Alonso keeps frustrations under wraps - no point in 'exploding'

While a Mercedes-powered Williams with Alonso at the wheel would certainly give the teams detached at the front more than a run for their money, it would likely be an occasional affair and not one which would position Williams as a consistent front-runner.

And that's not what the two-time world champion who has spent the last three years in purgatory is looking for.

NBCSN's Will Buxton actually submitted the idea of Alonso joining Williams to deputy team boss Claire Williams at Silverstone last month. Was her response a glimpse into what was going on in the wings?

"He would be a proper Williams driver," she said. "He’d probably look good in Williams Martini overalls as well, right? We’ll see…"

Williams still suffers from a budget deficit compared to Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull. Which, beyond its ability to compete on an equal level, begs the question as to how the Grove-based outfit could afford the services of Fernando Alonso?

Felipe Massa has told us that he wants to stay on next season, but Lance Stroll is committed to Williams for next season.

Perhaps Lawrence Stroll could pitch in and offer to pay Alonso's retainer, with Lance reaping the benefit of racing and learning alongside a man many still consider as the best?

Come on Lawrence, it's only money...

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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.