according to @Auto_Racer_it, charles got approached by lawrence stroll, but he backed away when he smelled something "fishy". they also mentioned a possible red bull move (in case of a max retirement):
"It's fair to say that Leclerc is currently the only real alternative for anyone who can't have Verstappen. Laurent Mekies knows the Monegasque like the back of his hand, if he needs to protect himself from Max's departure. He probably also knows that Charles has finally decided he no longer wants to feel like a central piece, but rather the center of the Ferrari project, unambiguously.
This requires a slightly more decisive renewal of his option in terms of future conditions, not so much financial ones. Otherwise, why not listen to those who would put him at the center without question?"
[@GiulyDuchessa]