Chelsea eyeing late swoop for Belgian attacker

Chelsea are reportedly planning a late attempt to sign Dries Mertens from Napoli as they seek to strengthen the striking department.

The Blues have Tammy Abraham, Michy Batshuayi and Olivier Giroud as the centre-forward options this term but the latter is expected to leave the club before tomorrow's transfer deadline.

As a result, the club have stepped up the hunt for an experienced marksman and The Telegraph reports that they have their sights on landing the signature of Mertens.

The Belgian's current deal with the Naples outfit is due to expire at the end of the season and the Blues are exploring the prospect of landing his services on a cut-price £7m move.

Napoli are presently reluctant to part ways with Mertens but their stance could change, should the player himself demand for an exit before the transfer deadline.

Mertens is currently content with his situation at Napoli and reports elsewhere have claimed that he could see out the rest of the season with the club before sealing a free transfer to Inter Milan.