Chelsea are still in talks to sign Napoli forward Dries Mertens, according to an Italian agent Vincenzo Morabito.

The Blues were originally interested in snapping up the Belgian international during the January transfer window, but the forward opted to stay in Italy.

It was thought that Mertens was poised to sign a new deal with Napoli, keeping him at the Serie A club beyond the end of the season, but Morabito suggests a move to Stamford Bridge is gathering momentum:

“Mertens? I believe he will not renew. Chelsea really like him. He could have also gone there in January, but the fact that he didn’t go blocked the negotiation for Giroud’s exit,”

“As far as I know Chelsea are continuing to deal with Mertens’ lawyers and it is no coincidence the Belgian has not yet renewed [his contract at Napoli].”

Mertens’ current contract expires in June, and he will be able to move on a free transfer. He is allowed to speak to foreign clubs about a pre-contract agreement so direct discussions with Chelsea would not be a surprise.

The 32-year-old has scored 12 goals in 29 games, which is admittedly far less prolific than he has been in recent years. However, he has been in and out of the starting eleven this campaign, having started just twelve league games.