But it has now emerged that he might be staying in World Superbike - on board a factory backed Ducati, fielded by British team, GSE. SpeedTV.com has revealed the interesting tie-up from "reliable Italian sources."

GSE team owner Darrell Healey told Crash.net at the final BSB round at Brands Hatch, that his team wouldn't continue to race in the UK unless the 1098 Ducatis were allowed to run non-standard pistons. The team's return to World Superbike was also thought to be thwarted, due to problems finding a sponsor that wanted European exposure.

However, a big name like Biaggi could help solve GSE's WSBK funding issues, possibly aided by extra support from Ducati and championship organiser's FG Sport - who are sure to want the Roman to remain in Superbike racing.

A GSE ride could be the ideal lifeline for Biaggi, who seems unlikely to get a MotoGP seat at Honda Gresini, his only other rumoured option. All the full factory WSBK and MotoGP rides look to have gone, but GSE would have direct factory backing, a must for Biaggi. Troy Bayliss stated in an interview at Vallelunga that he was expecting six 1098s on the grid in 2008, which would suggest two Xerox machines, two Sterilgarda and two allocated to GSE.

Another interesting twist to the story is the suggestion that Leon Camier might partner Biaggi. Camier is still recovering from his horrific accident at Cadwell Park, where he dislocated his knee, broke his femur and cracked his pelvis.

The 2007 BSB rookie had previously been linked to the GSE team, should it move back to World Superbikes next season, but as team-mate to Leon Haslam. However, when GSE stated at Brands that it had been forced to withdraw from racing, Haslam is thought to have made the move to HM Plant Honda for 2008.

As well as Haslam and team-mate Gregorio Lavilla, the likes of Troy Bayliss, Neil Hodgson and James Toseland have also ridden for GSE in either BSB or WSBK.