Chelsea receive big boost as Belgian star wants London move

Chelsea have emerged as the favourites to sign Dries Mertens from Napoli when the campaign reaches its conclusion.

The Belgian's current deal with Napoli expires in the coming months and he has so far declined to accept the contract extension on the table.

According to The Mail, the Blues are in regular contact with the attacker as they seek to convince him to join them this summer.

The same outlet cites that Mertens has the preference to play in London next term and that should give the Blues the edge in the transfer pursuit.

Arsenal have previously been credited with an interest in the 32-year-old but they have switched their focus towards signing Willain instead.

Willian is likely to leave the Blues on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer and the Gunners are leading the hunt to sign him.

The north London side are willing to hand him a three-year contract and reports claim that the presence of his close friend David Luiz will enhance their prospects of pushing through the deal.