Former champion Nicky Hayden is on the verge of signing with factory team Marlboro Ducati to partner world champion Casey Stoner for the 2009 season.

The formal announcement of Hayden's deal is expected at next week's San Marino Grand Prix at Misano, which is close to Ducati's Bologna headquarters.

According to well-informed sources, Hayden's departure has come as a big shock to the management of Honda USA who have lost a valuable marketing asset.

The American will replace Marco Melandri who has already announced his transfer to the Kawasaki Racing Team for next year.