According to reports in the German media, Cologne-based Toyota is lining up a bid for BMW's Nick Heidfeld, aiming to replace Ralf Schumacher, whose contract with the Japanese team runs out this year.

Race fans and insiders alike have been puzzled by the Japanese team's failure to shake up its driver line-up over the last three seasons, especially when it appeared to be quite ruthless - in terms of hiring and firing - during its first couple of seasons in F1.

However, with Ralf nearing the end of his contract, a contract which makes him one of the highest paid drivers on the grid, Toyota is clearly looking at its options.

According to Bild, Toyota is eyeing up former F3000 Champion Heidfeld and quotes the German's manager, Werner Heinz, as saying that the BMW driver currently has offers from two "top teams".

Comments made by Heidfeld in recent times suggest that the German is not entirely happy with the situation at BMW, having publicly questioned the German team's policy of running (test driver) Sebastian Vettel during the Friday (GP) sessions.

With Vettel being a former Formula BMW champion, having utterly dominated the 2004 series, and enjoying a close relationship with (team boss) Mario Theissen, it is obvious that he is being groomed for great things, all of which won't held Heidfeld's situation.

Although Pitpass sources are unable to comment on the Heidfeld rumour, they suggest that there will be major changes within the team this year, with Ralf Schumacher almost certain to be moving on.