While the whereabouts of Fernando Alonso for 2009 is not set in stone, speculation about the Spaniard's future is likely to remain rife.

Although the former double world champion is expected to stay at Renault next year, Honda is making no secret that it is keeping a seat open for him.

The 27-year-old, meanwhile, often says his real preference is Ferrari, the famous Italian team that has vowed to stick with Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa.

But until Alonso makes an official announcement some time after the Brazilian grand prix, the rumours are set to persist.

The latest speculation is in the Spanish newspaper AS, which says Alonso and Raikkonen could be the subject of a Seat swap for 2009.

"I really believe that with whatever team I will be with next season that I will be able to fight for the championship," Alonso said in China.

The rumours were perhaps sparked by the interview given last weekend to La Gazzetta dello Sport by Flavio Briatore, who emphasised Renault's relationship with Ferrari.

"It is logical that I support Ferrari, as an Italian, as Flavio Briatore, as Renault, for the relationship we have with Ferrari," he said.

Source: GMM