Felipe Massa has agreed to delay his Formula 1 retirement by at least one year after accepting a deal to race for Williams in 2017, paving the way for Valtteri Bottas to join Mercedes, replacing Nico Rosberg.
Mercedes approached Williams earlier this month about taking Bottas in exchange for a reduced power unit bill, but the offer was rejected by the Grove-based outfit as it would create serious problems their end.
Incoming rookie Lance Stroll, who is bringing an estimated £20 million in funding, demands an experienced driver as part of his contract, whilst title sponsor Martini requires a driver over 25 years of age and Williams need experience with the upcoming rule changes.
Therefore simply taking Mercedes offer, which includes Pascal Wehrlein, isn't an option for Williams.
Williams have therefore approached Massa about continuing in 2017 and it's reported the Brazilian has agreed to defer his retirement for a year, opening up the opportunity for Bottas to replace Rosberg.
Whilst no confirmation is expected until January, as neither sides have signed off on the deals, it looks as though the driver market is beginning to fall into place, with only Manor and Sauber yet to confirm their line-ups in full.
As part of the deal to sign Bottas, it's also believed Mercedes have agreed to cut Paddy Lowe's gardening leave, allowing him to start at Williams with immediate effect next season as the Briton looks set to replace technical chief Pat Symonds who will step down at the end of the month.
Wolff has also agreed to sever management ties to Bottas as part of the agreement as it could be seen as unfair if one of Mercedes' drivers is managed by the team boss.
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