Kankkunen eyes Citroen move in 2002

The 42-year-old has underlined his intention to remain in the top flight of rallying and, according to this week's Autosport, said his manager is speaking to all the major teams - including Citroen - about a drive next season.

"Everything is possible," said a cagey Kankkunen. "We will see where it leads. I'm not discounting anything, so all the competitive teams are interesting for me. Let's see where I end up."

Citroen would be the most likely destination for Kankkunen. Current drivers Philippe Bugalski, Jesus Puras and Thomas Radstrom all have contracts that expire at the end of this year. Sources say Radstrom has fallen short of expectations and that the team is looking for a gravel specialist to spearhead the Xsara's World Rally Car's loose surface development - a situation that would seem to suit Kankkunen's needs.

"I am still motivated," said the four-time world champion, "although I do not think I want to do the whole world championship next year."

A decision on driver line-ups is not expected until budgets are finalised in September. But in the meantime, Kankkunen is in Finland this weekend for his first WRC event of the year. The Finnish driver will be one of Hyundai's drivers nominated to score manufacturer championship points on his home turf.