Despite Zhou being the first full-time Chinese F1 racer, there has been speculation he does not come with major financial banking to incentivise Alfa Romeo to agree new terms.
Speaking ahead of the summer break, Alfa Romeo F1 managing director Alessandro Alunni Bravi reckoned his squad wanted to retain its line-up of Zhou and Valtteri Bottas - who moved from Mercedes for 2022 on a two-year deal, but with an option to continue for 2024.
But there is competition for the seat. FIA F2 champion and Aston Martin reserve Felipe Drugovich - well backed by sponsors - and Alfa protege Theo Pourchaire are in contention.
Nevertheless, Zhou believes he is close to landing another deal, ideally for multiple seasons.
He said: “It's a little bit [more] delayed than I expected. But I think it’s just due to me, together with Alfa Romeo, trying to figure out these final details.
“In terms of, let's say, ‘Why don't you sign?’ I still have no answer to that. But we're definitely talking more into that and getting more close to being done.
“I'm happy to be together, spending more and more years together with this team. The future is bright for where the team is heading.”
Source: Autosport