The video will start in 8 Cancel

The Daily Star's FREE newsletter is spectacular! Sign up today for the best stories straight to your inbox Sign up today! Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

The Italian has flirted with the idea of retiring after the 2018 season, when his current deal expires.

Yamaha struggled at points this season, to the annoyance of Rossi.

And despite recently admitting he would not make any decision until next season was underway, the team's choice of bike will be crucial in persuading the nine-time champion to extend his stay.

And team boss Lin Jarvis has conceded a poor start to the next campaign may mean Yamaha lose the 38-year-old.

"His motivation will also depend on the performance of the bike," he told Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport.

"In the winter I hope to be able to talk to him to understand the intentions, but I think he will decide after 3-4 races."

Poised with the question of who replaces Rossi once he retires, Jarvis admitted Yamaha were already considering his replacement.

"We will be prepared and, of course, Zarco will be one of the candidates," he added.

"The 2018 will be important, except the riders of Marc VdS and Crutchlow, all will be free."

(Image: Getty) (Image: Getty)

"There are 6 official Houses and each one will want at least one top rider. We are the only ones with two high-level and expensive riders."

And Jarvis admits he has been impressed with team rookie Zarco.

"He has impressed me on the track and outside of it," he continued.

"It was not the first option of any team, but right now there are many teams interested in him, KTM, for example."