Sep.25 (GMM) Narain Karthikeyan confirmed on Tuesday that he is in talks with Spyker about a return to the formula one grid in 2008.

The occasional Williams tester, who made his grand prix debut in 2005 with Spyker former Jordan guise, came close to securing the seat at the Dutch team vacated by axed Christijan Albers earlier this season.

According to speculation, his prospects increased even further ahead of next season with news that his countryman Vijay Mallya, an Indian billionaire, is in the final stages of acquiring a half stake in the team.

"I am in talks with other F1 teams, including Spyker," Karthikeyan was quoted by Indian media as telling reporters in Delhi.

The 30-year-old is currently gearing up to race for India in the A1 open wheeler series, but he is holding out hope for fruitful F1 talks.

Karthikeyan added: "Nothing is concrete but I am sure it would take some shape in the coming days."

"An Indian owning an F1 team is a big thing. It will open up a huge window of opportunities for Indian drivers to race in F1.

"I hope I will also get a chance to drive for Spyker very soon. I'm speaking to them but don't know how long it would take before things crystallise. I can't say how it would pan out."