Source says Ferrari targeting Button

Ferrari is eyeing Jenson Button as an ideal replacement for Felipe Massa, according to a British press report.

A source at the Maranello based team told the News of the World tabloid that there has been "a lot of talk" about 2009 world champion Button, who is currently Lewis Hamilton’s teammate at McLaren, joining Ferrari alongside Fernando Alonso.

The news follows Button’s claim last week that, despite Martin Whitmarsh saying he would extend the 31-year-old’s McLaren deal, he sees "no sense" in signing a new long-term contract.

The Ferrari source said: "They (Ferrari) have already checked to see if he would be available.

"The team realise they need a stronger partner for Fernando Alonso than Felipe Massa if they want to win the title again."