Ferrari have emerged as an unlikely option for McLaren, as rumours of a looming divorce with struggling works partner Honda persist.

In recent days, speculation that the McLaren-Honda split will proceed has waned.

However, Italy's authoritative La Gazzetta dello Sport now claims that Ferrari - once McLaren's arch title nemesis - have received an "exploratory enquiry" from the British team about the possibility of an engine deal.

"It is a dramatic and unpredictable scenario that years ago would have been unimaginable," the sports newspaper said.

McLaren's disappointing season has left them propping up the constructors' table with two points.