Hamilton set for new Mercedes deal, says Lauda

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Speculation over Alonso's future is dominating the headlines in Formula One following Saturday's announcement that Sebastian Vettel is to leave Red Bull, with a move to Ferrari believed to have been agreed for the four-time world champion.

Red Bull have already confirmed Daniel Kvyat as Vettel's replacement, while Alonso has been strongly linked with a move to McLaren.

Lauda, Mercedes' non-executive chairman, rejected the notion of his team - whose drivers have dominated this year's world championship - making any move for Alonso, instead revealing talks have begun on extending Hamilton's stay.

Asked if Alonso had been considered as an option for 2015, Lauda told Sky Sports F1: "No. Confirmed: we have Lewis and we have Nico [Rosberg]. They are on the front row of the grid. why should we change anything?

“For us it's clear because we never even discussed with him [Alonso], because Lewis has a contract for next year and Nico has two more years."

"With Lewis now we're negotiating to renew his contract after '15. One hundred per cent. For two or three years.

"We're just talking to him how long does he do. We're all positive, he's positive this is going to happen."

Hamilton also brushed off suggestions Alonso could make a switch to Mercedes, adding: "I'm here and I plan to be here, and I know Nico [does] as well.

"He might be talking about a third seat maybe, I don't know, but I don't think that's going to happen."

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