Mercedes technical chief Paddy Lowe could be set for a shock switch to Williams at the end of 2016, according to a report in Motorsport.com.
Executive director (technical) Lowe's future has been the subject of speculation for several months with his current deal expiring on December 31. The team is currently searching for a new driver following Nico Rosberg's shock retirement and now faces the prospect of also needing to replace a key member of staff before the start of the 2017 season.
The report states Lowe has indicated he will accept Williams' offer, which may see him work alongside current technical chief Pat Symonds as he transitions into retirement from Formula One after a lengthy career in the sport. The expiry date of Lowe's contract means he may not have to serve any period of gardening leave, though it is unclear whether he has any clauses preventing him switching to a rival immediately afterwards.
A Williams spokesperson declined to comment on the speculation when contacted by ESPN.
The move would be a massive coup for Williams after struggling with the development of its 2016 car, which saw it lose out to the less-resourced Force India in the battle for fourth position. Claire Williams has already suggested a revamp of the team's current operation by saying the 2017 role of Rob Smedley, the current head of vehicle performance, is currently being unclear.
After three years of dominating the sport the Mercedes role would be as high-profile as the Rosberg seat currently vacant. Former Ferrari technical chief James Allison, who left Maranello mid-way through 2016, looks to be the early front-runner for the job.