Saab is the latest manufacturer to be linked with entering the World Rally Championship.
Autosport claims Saab is looking at using its forthcoming 9-2 supermini as the basis for its WRC entry in 2012.
The report claims meetings between Saab’s parent firm Spyker and WRC officials have already taken place, with further talks planned at the Rally of France in October.
Read the full story on Mini's return to the WRC
"The initial meeting has happened and there's a huge amount of enthusiasm from all concerned,” sources close to the deal told Autosport. “Like Mini, Saab has a great heritage in the sport and a return to the WRC makes a lot of sense."
Mini confirmed its intentions to enter the WRC from 2011 last week. Interestingly, Saab is looking at using the new BMW/Mini front-drive platform for its new 9-2, while also using BMW engines for future models.
Read more on Saab's potential deal with BMW/Mini
Saab is particularly keen on the 1.6-litre turbo petrol and turbodiesel units used in the Mini. Mini will use its turbocharged 1.6 petrol engine to power its Countryman WRC car and the same engine is almost certain to find its way into the Saab WRC car, should the deal materialise.
Volkswagen has also been linked with a WRC entry in 2012 when its Dakar Rally commitments end next year.
