Technical head Paddy Lowe could be about to follow newly-retired Formula One world champion Nico Rosberg out the door at Mercedes.
Motorsport.com reports multiple sources "with good knowledge" indicating Lowe, who has helped Mercedes win three successive constructors' titles, is set to join rivals Williams.
Mercedes, who were rocked byRosberg's retirement only five days after winning the title at the end of last month in Abu Dhabi, had no comment on rumours rife since September.
There was no immediate response from Williams, who use Mercedes engines and whose Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas has become the bookmakers' favourite to replace Rosberg next season.
Lowe started his F1 career with former world champions Williams in 1987 and spent six years there. The team finished fifth overall this year.
Williams current technical head Pat Symonds is 63 and told Reuters in a recent interview he would still be at the team next year, while also indicating he was looking to reduce his workload.
"I love motorsport and the engineering of it but it is relentless. It really is intense. I'm still working 60 hours a week and there comes a time when I'd like to do other things as well," he said.
Lowe's contract at Mercedes expires at the end of the year, according to reports in Britain and Germany, and the 53-year-old's future has been the subject of considerable speculation.
McLaren, his previous employers, last week ruled out a move for the Briton.
