Throughout the recent January transfer window, several clubs were linked with Napoli forward, Dries Mertens, with Chelsea at the forefront of contenders for the Belgian’s signature. Now, Gazetto Dello Sport are reporting that the Blues are prepared to make a second bid for the Napoli man with Mertens yet to sign a new deal at the Italian club.
Chelsea Prepared to Make Second Bid for Dries Mertens
One In One Out?
The move for Mertens will likely be a response to the exit of Olivier Giroud, who was also linked with a move away in January. And, due to the versatility of the 32-year-old, Mertens could also act as a replacement for Willian, whose contract is set to expire in the summer. The fact is, Mertens is the perfect option for Chelsea and would act as a free replacement for two players in two different positions.
The Italian also brings with him years of experience at the top, experience that the Chelsea youngsters can learn from. The likes of Callum Hudson Odoi could realise his ever-increasing potential with the help of the experienced Mertens.
Chelsea are not the only club after the Belgian, however, with Inter Milan also linked with the Napoli forward. A move to Milan may make more sense for Mertens, who might want to stay and retire in the country where he currently plays as well as getting one last opportunity to win the Scudetto, a trophy that has so far been out of reach for the Belgian.
The transfer saga is certainly going to test Mertens’ loyalty to the Napoli fans and his willingness to keep his legacy in Naples intact. A move to Inter Milan, a direct title rival of Napoli, would only anger the Napoli fans and therefore damage a legacy the 32-year-old worked so hard to build.
This could see the Napoli forward favour a move to England and to Chelsea, where his experience could help form the next big thing in the Premier League and at Chelsea.
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