Chelsea will reportedly miss out on a summer deal for Napoli forward Dries Mertens as the Belgium international wants to stay in Serie A for the 2020-21 campaign.
The 33-year-old's current deal in Naples is due to expire at the end of June, meaning that, as it stands, he will be available on a free transfer this summer.
Chelsea have been consistently linked with the attacker in recent weeks, and it had been thought that he was keen on a move to Stamford Bridge ahead of next season.
However, according to Sky Sports Italia, Mertens wants to remain in Serie A, placing Inter Milan as the favourites should the Belgian leave his current side.
The attacker has scored 121 goals in 311 appearances for Napoli in all competitions, including 12 in 29 outings during the 2019-20 campaign.
Manchester United and Arsenal have also previously been credited with an interest in his services.
Written by
Matt Law
Matt Law
