Pascal Wehrlein has admitted that he is in the frame to replace the Renault-bound Nico Hulkenberg for 2017.
With his strong Mercedes backing, Wehrlein made his F1 debut this year with Manor, but the Hulkenberg vacancy could now see him move up the grid with another Mercedes-powered team.
Asked if Hulkenberg's seat will be his, Wehrlein told the German broadcaster ARD: "Unfortunately, I still can't say.
"There will be some talks held for next year, and my goal is of course to get into a faster and better car as soon as possible.
"At the moment I have a contract this year with Manor and I'm focused on that. It's my main job. I can only influence the other things through my performance on the track."
He admitted that he has been eyeing the Force India vacancy for some time now.
"It was no great surprise that a place may be available at Force India, because the rumours about Nico and also Sergio Perez have been around for several weeks.
"There is usually at least something behind these rumours."
Wehrlein was speaking at the DTM season finale at Hockenheim.
