McLaren bids $82m for Alonso

Alonso to McLaren: What you want to pay me $82m per year? Of course I'll take it.

Fernando Alonso is in talks over his future with Ferrari, the Italian giants said yesterday as McLaren dangled a reported 50 million ($82 million) deal to lure away the Spaniard.

"At this moment, in Japan, Alonso is discussing his future at Ferrari," said its president, Luca di Montezemolo.

Double world champion Alonso has been linked with a return to McLaren either next year or in 2016 with Spanish press reports claiming his former employers were preparing a 50 million deal, around 30 million more than his present contract.

"He has had some fantastic races for us over the last four years," said Montezemolo.

"Our team manager Marco Mattiacci has talked to him about the future and I am sure we will find the best solution for him and for Ferrari, whatever that may be."

"I must thank Alonso because whether he stays or doesn't stay, he has done a lot for Ferrari," said Montezemolo.

Alonso, who is in Japan preparing for tomorrow's Suzuka Grand Prix said: "At the moment I am not leaving … It's all just rumors," said the 33-year-old.