Button linked to Ferrari deal

According to reports in Britain's News of the World, the Italian team's growing frustration with its star driver Michael Schumacher's refusal to discuss a contract which expires at the end of next year has led to investigations into potential alternatives, of which Jenson Button is number one.

"The team has been highly impressed by Jenson," said a Ferrari insider, "and [Ferrari president] Luca di Montezemelo has labelled him as a star of the future. Things are in the balance because Michael has a contract until the end of next year, but we do not know what he wants to do and we cannot afford to wait."

Button has had a lacklustre 2001 season so far, struggling with an uncompetitive Benetton and finished second to last and three laps down in Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix. He admitted that it is every driver's dream to drive for the Prancing Horse.

"Any driver would love to drive for Ferrari," said Button, "because they are the world champions. They are the best team at the moment, but I am not going to talk about my future."

He is in the first of a two-year stint at Benetton, but remains under contract to Williams until the end of 2003. With Sir Frank's current driver line-up of San Marino Grand Prix winner Ralf Schumacher and Juan Pablo Montoya, who finished second in Spain, delivering the goods, Button may become surplus to requirements.

While the 21-year-old's management admitted that it was involved in talks, Dave Roberston would not confirm it was with Ferrari.

"Top teams talk to top drivers," said Robertson. "Jenson would love to drive for Ferrari one day but I cannot tell you who we are talking to."

Williams gave Button his break in F1 last year and will undoubtedly be key to a potential move to Ferrari, but he has clearly stated that he is in no hurry to decide the future of his protege. Button's loyalty could also be a factor.

"Jenson is extremely loyal," added Robertson. "He has a great relationship with Frank, even if he has moved to another team this season. Frank gave him his F1 break and if it was a choice between Ferrari and Frank, I'm sure he would do what Frank wanted."