Chelsea are reportedly in talks to sign Napoli forward Dries Mertens as they look to bring in an attacking player late in the January window.
The 32-year-old Belgium international, who is out of contract this summer at Napoli, would cost at least £5m and Inter Milan are also reported to be interested.
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has become increasingly frustrated by lack of signings this transfer window, particularly in the attacking area.
Mertens can play in any position across the front three and is being lined up to replace the want-away Olivier Giroud, who has been linked with a move to Tottenham.
Speaking about Dries Mertens in December, his agent Federico Pastorello said: “If I think about a good opportunity in the market, it would be Mertens from Napoli. He is out of contract (in the summer).
“He is an amazing player. I think he will be soon the best scorer in the history of the club. He has proven himself in the Champions League because he scored in that competition and the national team.
“I think a player like that, out of contract is an amazing opportunity, even maybe for January.
“Every player really wants to play in the Premier League at least once. So I think he would be very happy to play in the Premier League. I know him very well tactically and technically and I think he can be a successful player for the Premier League.”
The forward has made 16 appearances in Serie A this campaign and has scored four goals from 47 shots.
