Renault is looking to make a huge splash in the 2017 Formula 1 season by having officially signed Nico Hulkenberg and now entering talks with Williams driver Valtteri Bottas.

Force India team boss Vijay Mallya confirmed that his team has released Hulkenberg from his contract, allowing him to join Renault on a two-year contract with an option for a third season in 2019, as reported by Autosport.

“Everybody at Force India wishes Nico well as he embarks upon a different path in Formula 1,” said Mallya while adding that Hulkenberg is “an outstanding driver, who has scored more points for this team than anybody else.”

The German driver himself released a statement saying: “I’m very happy to join Renault Sport Formula One Team in 2017. Renault has always been a big player in the motorsport world that brings up incredible memories: in his stint at Renault, Michael Schumacher not only made Germany an F1 nation, he also sparked my enthusiasm and fire for racing. As a part of the Renault family, I want to develop the car and write new success stories.”

“It has always been my dream to work for a manufacturer team. F1’s new regulations will change the game and give our team a good opportunity. In the years to come, Renault will play a challenger role, which fits my approach to racing 100%. I can’t wait to become part of the family.”

Even so, it seems Renault aren’t content with pairing Hulkenberg with either Magnussen or Jolyon Palmer and are aiming higher looking to add Williams star Valtteri Bottas. Renault is moving in on Bottas after learning that Williams is taking their time to activate the option they have on him, an option that would result in a significant pay bump for the Finnish driver.

Williams are already expected to sign European Formula 3 champion Lance Stroll in order to replace Felipe Massa, though if they don’t exercise their option on Bottas sooner rather than later, they will continue to risk losing him to Renault.

It’s clear that the French outfit is looking to play out the 2017 season from a position of strength, hoping to field two experienced drivers that are considered to be among Formula One’s finest.

Would you like to see Bottas stay with Williams or join Hulkenberg at Renault?

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