Monday 14 July at 11:37 : Multiple sources and reports are now claiming that McLaren sponsor Santander is set to switch to Ferrari in 2010.

We reported last week that the speculated deal, worth up to 25 million euros per season, could involve the driving services of former double world champion Fernando Alonso.

The daily newspaper Publico says Santander currently pays McLaren 20 million per year.

But following suggestions that Santander and Alonso may arrive at Maranello in 2009, however, a spokesmwoman for the bank insists that its current contract with McLaren runs out only at the end of next year.

It is understood a contract between Ferrari and Santander has not yet been signed.

"The bank has always wanted to be with Alonso but the sponsorship contract was done with McLaren and not with Alonso," the spokeswoman said.

The Spanish newspaper ABC now reports: "(Santander) has already informed the team of Ron Dennis and has a deal with the Italians from 2010".

The business newspaper Expansion adds that "the new deal with the Spanish bank could coincide with Alonso leaving Renault to join (Ferrari)".