Former Caterham F1 driver Marcus Ericsson has agreed a deal to join Sauber for next season.

The Swedish racer made his Formula 1 debut this year having successfully graduated from GP2 to the struggling Caterham squad.

Having seemingly lost his drive at Caterham after the team went into administration last week, Sauber has moved quickly to sign the 24-year-old as the team begins to prepare for next season.

The identity of Ericsson’s team-mate remains unclear at this stage with the Swiss outfit currently employing Adrian Sutil and Esteban Gutierrez.

“Fresh from a very turbulent week, I was suddenly given my best early Christmas present ever,” said Ericsson.

“The Sauber F1 Team has put its trust in me for 2015, and it makes me proud, as Sauber is known to be one of the best teams in developing young drivers.

“It will be a great challenge. I will give my very best to develop both as a driver, and to be part of the challenge to put the Sauber F1 Team back closer to the front where it belongs.”

Sauber boss Monisha Kaltenborn is confident the acquisition of Ericsson will help push the team on despite Ericsson suffering a difficult debut season, which has seen him record a best finish of 11th at this year’s Monaco Grand Prix.

“We have got to know Marcus as a highly motivated driver,” said Kaltenborn.

“He did not have an easy rookie season this year in Formula One, however, he kept calm and improved continuously, mainly in the last races.

“We are convinced that signing Marcus can give the team a fresh impetus.”