Lucas di Grassi is in talks about returning to the role as Pirelli’s official test driver.
The Brazilian worked with F1’s official supplier last year at the wheel of its Toyota test car, after losing his race seat at Virgin.
Pirelli has now acquired a 2010 Renault for its private development this year.
Di Grassi is "in advanced talks with the manufacturer" for a deal that could be "announced shortly", Brazil’s Globo said.
The first Pirelli track test of 2012 is scheduled for May.