Chandhok could complete Campos deal on Friday

UPDATE This rumor is upgraded to 'strong.' Campos team principal Colin Kolles on Friday confirmed reports that Indian GP2 driver Karun Chandhok is close to securing a deal to race in 2010.

"We are close to finalizing a deal with him," the 43-year-old German-Romanian is quoted as saying by India's Business Standard Motoring.

"However we will be in a better position to comment on this over the next few days," added Kolles, amid reports the 26-year-old driver's deal could be signed and announced on Friday.

Chandhok would be the second Indian to race in F1, after Narain Karthikeyan – who was also signed by Kolles – drove throughout 2005 with Jordan.

Karun Chandhok

02/26/10 (GMM) It is expected that an imminent announcement will confirm that Karun Chandhok has been signed to debut with the new Campos team in 2010.

Multiple sources and reports claim that 26-year-old Indian driver has secured the drive with the assistance of a healthy sponsorship package.

The GP2 driver is currently training in Italy, and his father Vicky told the Times of India: "Right now, we can't say anything."

The Indian daily Hindustan Times said a contract can be signed, and an announcement made, as soon as Friday, once Chandhok provides Campos with a bank guarantee.

Indian sources say Chandhok is backed by JK Tires and Punj Lloyd, an Indian engineering company.

Father Vicky Chandhok may have completed the funding package with bank loans.

It is expected that Bruno Senna will be his teammate, although it is yet to be confirmed officially that the Brazilian's contract is still valid in the wake of the Campos takeover.

Senna's manager Chris Goodwin told the BBC: "There's no reason to think Bruno won't be part of it (the lineup).

"It's clear as far as we're concerned. He signed a contract in October and he'll be in the car this season," Goodwin added.

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