Nico Rosberg has apparently signed an extension to his deal with Williams, which will see him stay at the Grove-based outfit for a further two years.

According to reports by German newspaper Bild am Sonntag, Nico has now committed himself to the team until the end of 2010, something that seemingly ends any talk that he might move to McLaren-Mercedes in the near future and fill the void left by Fernando Alonso's exit.

"I am looking forward to two further years with Williams," the German confirmed to the 'paper.

Although Rosberg was already signed to Williams for next year speculation of a move to McLaren continued to do the rounds.

Indeed while Williams were believed to be keen to keep hold of their young star, many reports suggested that they would let him go, if McLaren were prepared to compensate them. German daily newspaper Bild-Zeitung for example reported a few weeks ago that Frank Williams would want around $22 million to release him.

Nico himself though has never seemed especially keen on leaving and said as much publicly last month.

"I am staying here, I'm only 22 and am not rushed yet," he told British broadsheet newspaper, The Daily Telegraph. "I can pace my career - but I want to start being on the podium next season."

Where this leaves McLaren is uncertain, although a number of other names have been linked to the seat, including Heikki Kovalainen, as well as McLaren testers, Pedro de la Rosa and Gary Paffett.

More to follow as and when it happens...