Pastor Maldonado in talks to race in IndyCar with KVSH this season

Maldonado has been without a drive since he was replaced by Kevin Magnussen in Renault's line-up ahead of the start of the 2016 F1 season, but has pursued options in both F1 and IndyCar.

The Venezuelan was a guest of KVSH when he attended the IndyCar race at Iowa last July, but insisted at the time his focus remained on securing a place on the 2017 F1 grid.

But Autosport's sister brand Motorsport.com has learned that Maldonado is pursuing a road and street course programme with the squad, which has scored four wins over the past three seasons with Sebastien Bourdais.

It is understood that Maldonado is not interested in racing on ovals.

Any prospective deal looks to be KVSH's last chance to remain on the IndyCar grid.

The outfit had long been the subject of speculation about a tie-up with British outfit Carlin, but team owner Trevor Carlin cast doubt about that possibility earlier on Wednesday.

KVSH's equipment and assets have been packed up in its shop in Indianapolis, although they are yet to be sold, and the team has been disbanded bar three members.