Speaking to the BBC, Eddie said "Yes, Alesi would be a good alternative for us because we know him and he's quick. But only if he was not under contract with Prost anymore."

A Jordan 'insider' told BBC Sport Online that the deal was "90% done". All that was required was for Alesi to end his contractual arrangements with Prost. EJ has been seen speaking at length, on many occasions to Alain Prost to help this process.

It is reported that by the 1st of August the financially strapped Prost needs to come up with a huge payment to keep his supply of Ferrari engines for next year. He also has to make a salary payment to Alesi, and he needs engines more than Alesi so the Italian outfit are likely to be paid first.
This missed payment and other breaches of contract (including an unfair fine and lack of development of the 2001 car) will allow Alesi to walk.

On Monday Jordan released a statement saying: "The Jordan Honda team will not be making any further comments concerning drivers until further notice. Any current stories being discussed in the media are purely speculative."