Christian Klien is refusing to give up on his dream of returning to racing despite losing out on Sauber's second race-seat.

Having tested with BMW since 2008, Klien had hoped to secure a race-seat with the team when ownership reverted back to Peter Sauber. However, instead Sauber opted to sign McLaren test driver Pedro de la Rosa.

But despite losing out, Klien is confident he will return to racing this season, revealing that he is in "serious" talks with two teams.

"There are still a few seats up for grabs," he told his website.

"I have been approached by several teams throughout the 2009 season. With two of those teams I am currently in serious negotiations.

"My goal is to be racing in F1 this season and I still have every chance to achieve that.

"With all the test restrictions the job of a test driver is not as attractive as it was some time ago.

"Still, you have to weigh this option carefully.

"Last season, no fewer than five reserve drivers were called upon in 10 teams to replace a racing driver. Statistically the job makes sense.

"Still, my plan is to go racing. That is top of the list. And I still see a fair chance to be on the grid in 2010."

Time, though, is running before pre-season testing gets underway on February 1. And although the Austrian would rather sign a deal that gives him time to test, he admits he may have to wait until the 11th hour.

"Theoretically the decision about drivers can be made right before the first race in Bahrain in March," he said.

"Commonsense tells us though that it makes sense to have your line-up ready before you go testing, which will be at the beginning of February or mid-February depending on the teams."