Oct.17 (GMM) Norbert Haug has issued a mixed denial to persistent rumours that Nico Rosberg is at the top of the list to potentially replace Fernando Alonso at McLaren next season.

To the German news agency Deutsche Presse-Agentur, Haug - who is McLaren partner Mercedes-Benz's competition director - also countered reports that impressive Toro Rosso rookie Sebastian Vettel might be an ideal candidate should Alonso leave the team after Sunday's Brazilian grand prix.

"So there is no confusion, there are no talks (with them)," Haug was quoted as saying on Wednesday.

He added: "Whether one of them drives for us one day, I do not know -- they are both good enough. Their destiny lies in their own hands."