Michael Schumacher has been in early talks with Mercedes GP over a possible return to Formula One next season, according to reports in the British press.

The seven-time world champion was set for a brief return with Ferrari during this year's Championship before a neck injury ended his plans. However, that doesn't mean he's out for good.

Schumacher still works for Ferrari, but Brawn's takeover by German car giants Mercedes could persuade him to to return for a new team.

Jenson Button has left to join McLaren leaving a big hole in the new Mercedes outfit, and the team officials are thought to want an all-German driver line-up with Nico Rosberg linked as another possible candidate.

According to a report in the Daily Telegraph, Schumacher has already been sounded out about making a return to the sport, although his fitness and condition of his injured neck would be a huge concern.