THE Jordan Peugeot Formula One team yesterday confirmed that they had offered Nigel Mansell the chance of a grand prix comeback. But the Silverstone based outfit added there has been no on going dialogue with the former world champion.

Team manager Eddie Jordan contacted Mansell, without a drive since he and McLaren parted company early in the 1995 season, after Damon Hill opted to join the TWR Arrows in September.

"Eddie did telephone Nigel to make inquiries when Damon went to TWR because Nigel had indicated he would consider a drive," said a Jordan spokeswoman yesterday.

"But it was just a chat. There has been no direct dialogue or any on going discussions since then."

Mansell, now 43, indicated recently that he would be prepared to return to Formula One if the right offer from the right team came along.

Jordan are keen to partner the raw talent of Ralf Schumacher, younger brother of two time world champion Michael, with an experienced driver.

"Eddie is going to investigate every avenue when it comes to our second driver," added the spokeswoman. "It is not as if we have got to make a decision by the end of November or something.

"Ralf was always going to do the bulk of winter testing to get used to the car and the team. We are looking for the best driver available."

Mansell, the 1992 champion, suffered an embarrassing come back last year when the cockpit of the McLaren was too small forcing him to miss the first two races.