Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is keen on signing Napoli striker Dries Mertens this summer and the Blues have received a huge boost in the pursuit of the Belgian forward.
According to Italian media outlet Calcio Mercato via Daily Express, Napoli’s reluctance to match Mertens contract demands has stalled contract negotiations and this is pushing the Belgian closer to joining Chelsea.
The 33 year old is demanding a two-year deal worth €4million per season while he is also hunting for a renewal bonus.
Mertens also wants Napoli to rescind the fines imposed on their players following an internal mutiny against the club hierarchy last November.
However, club chairman Aurelio De Laurentis does not wish to cancel the financial penalties while he is also reluctant to pay more than €3m per season in wages.
Inter Milan are also interested in signing Mertens but the Belgian prefers a move to Chelsea instead of remaining in the Serie A with any club other than Napoli.
Working with Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is also an attractive proposition for Mertens.