Arsenal enter the race to sign Belgian striker

Arsenal have reportedly earmarked Napoli forward Dries Mertens as a transfer target ahead of the 2020 winter transfer window.

Mikel Arteta has recently taken over the managerial reins at the Gunners and he is expected to spend on new signings at the turn of the year.

According to Il Mattino, Mertens has emerged as an option for the forthcoming transfer window with his contract expiring in six months' time.

The 32-year-old has declined to extend his stay with Napoli and reports have emerged that the club will sanction his sale at the beginning of the year.

Manchester United are also keen on recruiting the Belgium international but the Gunners could have the edge with the assurance of regular gametime.

Mertens is capable of playing in multiple attacking positions but he has found most of his success leading the line in the Serie A for Napoli.

The future of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang remains in doubt due to his contract standoff and Mertens could act as a direct replacement.

Aubameyang has no intention of signing a new deal beyond June 2020 and the club are expected to consider his sale in either January or at the end of the season.