Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has been in “direct” contact with Napoli striker Dries Mertens, according to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

The Belgian international is available on a free transfer at the end of the season, and he is free to speak foreign clubs ahead of signing a pre-contract agreement.

Mertens was the subject of interest from the Blues during the January transfer window but the 32-year-old opted to stay in Italy.

He is currently in talks over extending his stay with Napoli, but despite expectations that he would be remaining with the Partenopei, no agreement has been reached between the two parties.

Lampard is believed to be keen to add some experience to his frontline, with Olivier Giroud still expected to leave despite Chelsea reportedly triggering a one-year contract extension in his contract.

Competition for Tammy Abraham is badly needed with Michy Bashuayi having failed to make an impression this campaign.