A tug-of-war for championship-winning designer Adrian Newey has escalated with Aston Martin reportedly taking the F1 heavyweight for a "secret factory visit".
Newey is regarded as one of the greatest designers in F1 history and has a career that spans decades.
Since confirming his departure from Red Bull, the 65-year-old has been in high demand with rumours that Ferrari is the lead candidate to acquire his services.
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Newey has previously stated one of his lifetime goals was to work with seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton. Newey has also expressed a desire to work with Ferrari.
With Hamilton joining Ferrari next year the timing may well be perfect for Newey to join the Scuderia.
According to Motorsport.com, Aston Martin supremo Lawrence Stroll personally sought to get Newey onboard and revive the Mercedes-powered team.
It was also suggested in that report that staff members were asked to vacate the factory for the secret tour.
Fernando Alonso joked about the rumours ahead of his home Spanish Grand Prix.
"There are many questions on that," he said.
"Yeah, I read the rumours, I read the news. But it's coming from the same source and the same websites of one week ago (saying) he was in Ferrari and it was the announcement at 12 o'clock before Canada race. So yeah, rumours are rumours."
Although Alonso skirted around the rumours, teammate Lance Stroll said the opportunity for Aston Martin to work with Newey would be a massive coup for the squad.
"Well, you know, it's a super exciting factory," said Stroll.
"We have a young team, but a very exciting project. You know, wind tunnel, everything that you already know. That's very exciting about our team."
Like Alonso, Stroll joked about the endless rumours of where Newey will land.
The same Motorsport.com report indicated McLaren and Mercedes have secretly tried to get Newey to join them – which should come as no surprise given his prowess.
"Well, I think everyone in this paddock wants to meet Adrian Newey," said Stroll.
"I hear a lot of things, mainly from you guys. I mean, last week I heard he was going to Ferrari and now he's coming to us. Next week he's going to be going to Williams! So I listen to you guys.
"But I mean, he's a legend in the sport. He has more championships than anyone in this paddock, drivers, engineers, anyone. Everyone loves Adrian and wants Adrian."
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