Mercedes chief Toto Wolff has urged Valtteri Bottas to make a decision over his future before the Asian leg of the calendar.
The Finn was a late addition to the Mercedes line-up during the off-season following the shock retirement of Nico Rosberg after his world title triumph.
Mercedes handed Bottas a one-year deal as they looked to keep their options open but they are now ready to tie him down to a longer contract after some impressive displays.
Bottas has claimed two race victories and a further six podium finishes at the midway point of the 2017 campaign.
Wolff is now hoping that they can come to an agreement before the season heads into the Asian leg in mid-September.
"It's a good time to talk and to think things through. We had some good discussions with Valtteri before Hungary. I'd certainly like to go to Asia for the final races with a decision,” Wolff said.