Manor looking for Mercedes engines for 2016?

After deciding against supplying Red Bull their engines for next season, Mercedes are in discussion with the Manor team regarding their power units for 2016.

Manor is currently using a year old Ferrari unit, while Mercedes supplies engines to Lotus, Force India and Williams. Rumours about Renault buying Lotus means that Mercedes loses Lotus as a customer for their Power Units.

Further to solidify the rumours, Mercedes head of motorsport, Toto Wolff confirmed the same.

“On the engine, we had some discussions and they’re interested in exploring the competitive environment,” he told AUTOSPORT.

“They have a Ferrari engine today but it’s a young team and a new team and they need to meet with all engine suppliers and make the best deal for yourself.

“This is why we’ve been talking to them.”

Further rumours point to Mercedes are in talk with Manor for a potential deal about Paul Wehrlein to race for them in 2016. Paul, currently a Mercedes reserve is doing pretty well in the DTM circuit and Wolff on repeated occasions has shown his support for the German.

Initially, Wehrlein was linked with a drive for Force India but that deal is now off.

Nothing better would be for Manor at this stage if they can get Mercedes Power Units for their 2016 season. It would be a fascinating tale of their revival, if they can get even a single point next season.

With Haas coming in next season, and considering its closeness with the Ferrari factory team, Manor might face some real competition or at least a reason to perform well and push themselves to the maximum level.