Pictures that supposedly show a new Maserati sports car concept, dubbed the Alfieri, have appeared online ahead of its scheduled unveiling at the Geneva motor show.

Previous reports suggest that Maserati has positioned the concept between the Porsche Cayman and 911, meaning it is roughly the same size as the Jaguar F-type coupé.

The Alfieri, seen here in leaked shots posted on an Italian forum, reportedly previews a production model which could go on to replace the Maserati Granturismo. The concept's name refers to Alfieri Maserati, one of the brothers who founded the company.

The reduced size of this concept means it will be very different to the current Granturismo, which is a rival for the Jaguar XKR, with reports suggesting the new car will offer a smaller, lighter alternative to the Porsche 911.

Maserati has talked openly in the past about its plans to launch a rival to the 911. Current reports suggest the model could come with both V6 and V8 powertrains, offering around 450bhp and 550bhp respectively. Four-wheel drive is likely to be optional for V8-powered versions in some markets. Maserati is said to have targeted a kerb weight of less than 1400kg for the new car.

There are also rumours that the Maserati could also use the same platform as the Alfa Romeo 4C. If that's true, it means the Alfieri concept and the production model it previews is likely to be mid-engined.