McLaren CEO Zak Brown is confident a deal can be reached to secure the arrival of Toro Rosso technical chief James Key early in 2019.
The British designer had been announced as moving to the Woking-based outfit as far back as July but disagreements continue on a package that would see Key leave his contract early.
Compensation and a period of gardening leave is the most likely outcome, but initially, the junior Red Bull team had been requesting Lando Norris join the team as part of a deal.
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"We are in active discussions and I would characterise those discussions towards the end of coming to a positive conclusion for all parties," Brown said of the current situation.
"I anticipate, as I've said before, [he will join] in sufficient time next year to help influence the progress of this year's car and ultimately the development of 2020.
"I will share that news as soon as we have news, but I would anticipate being able to share something early in the new year."
Key's arrival is considered a vital part of McLaren's efforts to improve their recent competitiveness and the CEO's plan of challenging for wins and the championship in the next five years.
