Mick Schumacher and Ferrari are poised to break ties at the end of 2022, according to a report.
The German has been a part of the Scuderia's Academy since 2019, during which time he won the Formula 2 title and made his way into Formula 1 at Haas.
But despite some stronger performances during the summer, it is expected that Schumacher will be replaced in the American team for next season.
Furthermore, Motorsport.com claims his current contract at Ferrari will also not be renewed as team boss Mattia Binotto lost confidence in Mick's potential.
On his own, it would mean Schumacher becomes free to join any F1 team interested in him, with Esteban Ocon sounding out his "good friend" to take the second seat at Alpine.
Another option emerging is AlphaTauri if Red Bull agrees to end Pierre Gasly's contract early so the Frenchman can join Alpine.
Signing a German in Schumacher could also pave the way for a potential partnership with Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2026, should the expected engine partnership with Porsche be confirmed.
But a move may depend on whether Helmut Marko can get his rumoured preferred option in IndyCar driver Colton Herta, who is currently tied to McLaren.
The American also needs to gain 12 points to qualify for an F1 superlicence, requiring at least a fourth-place finish in the IndyCar championship.
One man still very much backing Schumacher though is Sebastian Vettel, who suggested another potential destination for the 23-year-old.
“I wish him a bit more drive for the last races,” the four-time world champion told Sky Sports at Spa.
“Unfortunately, nowadays you are quickly judged by the last results and there is a bit of a lack of foresight.
“Mick is someone who is constantly learning, even if a lot of people have stopped learning, will keep learning. That’s an absolute strength.
“He didn’t have the opening start that he would have liked, but then he picked up the momentum. Now you also have to see that the car isn’t as good as it was at the beginning of the year.
"You don’t finish fifth or sixth with the car anymore, so it’s difficult to stand out there, but he’s doing a good job behind the scenes.
“I wish him to stay in there and get a good car. Maybe at McLaren.”
