Renault set to sign Kimi to partner Fisi?
McLaren-Mercedes star, Kimi Raikkonen has allegedly been offered a three-year contract by Renault worth 50 million Euros.
According to reports by as.com, Renault boss, Flavio Briatore is eager for the Finn to join the regie in 2007, when Fernando Alonso will leave and go in the opposite direction.
Although Renault confirmed Giancarlo Fisichella this week, adding that the Italian will form the 'backbone of their challenge next year', it is thought that Briatore is keen to sign the 'ice-man' and reckons he will be the perfect replacement for Alonso, who has consistently outperformed Fisi both this season and last.
Furthermore while it is thought that Ferrari could offer Raikkonen a similar pay-packet, if Michael Schumacher opts to continue to race, he may be surplus to requirements. Indeed Schumacher is use to having the undisputed attention of the team and may demand 'number one' status.
Some sources meanwhile reckon that Raikkonen may have already signed a deal with the regie and that it will be offically confirmed in July at Renault's home race, the French GP.