The 22-year-old Brazilian raced in Formula 3000 this season as well as being a regular test driver for Williams.

Jaguar spokesman Nav Sidhu confirmed the team's interest in Pizzonia, who had impressed the team with his pace at a speed trial in Barcelona.

But Sidhu quashed rumours they were also looking at another Brazilian, Helio Castroneves.

"Castroneves is not even on the list, never was," he said.

There is just one Grand Prix left to race this season in Japan, and Jaguar still have not decided who will drive for them in 2003.

Eddie Irvine is nearing the end of his contract and has yet to announce his plans.

However, Irvine's recent results, including a third spot on the podium in Italy, prove the 36-year-old still has the desire to race.

Irvine's team-mate Pedro de la Rosa can also not guarantee being in the driving-seat next season.

The Spaniard's inability to notch up a single point in this campaign has fuelled rumours that Jaguar may not be willing to renew his contract.

Nav Sidhu also stressed names had been drawn up to find a new Jaguar test driver, a job largely carried out by Irvine and de la Rosa.

"It's not just the two guys lining up on the grid in Melbourne," said Sidhu.