Chelsea make late approach for Napoli forward Dries Mertens

Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Napoli striker Dries Mertens, who is set to become a free agent this summer, according to Football London.

The report also adds that the Blues have opened talks with the Serie A club regarding the signing of Mertens, whom Arsenal and Tottenham are also keeping close tabs on.

The 32-year-old Belgian is open to negotiations with the foreign clubs in January and could be available for £10m.

Mertens is considered as one of the best players ever to wear a Partenopei shirt, having made more than 300 appearances since joining them in 2013.

Outside the Premier League, Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan are also said to be interested in Mertens' signature, with the latter one hoping to lure him to San Siro before the deadline day.

Frank Lampard has made clear that Blues would go for a signing or two in the transfer window, with forwards like Oliver Giroud and Pedro being linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge.