Napoli forward Dries Mertens is interested in a move to London, according to reports in the English media. The news will come as a big boost to Chelsea who are said to be looking to sign the Belgian on a free transfer.
There have been claims in Italy suggesting that manager Frank Lampard has contacted the 32-year-old personally about moving to Stamford Bridge, but while some fans on Twitter would back the move, others are concerned about his age:
Get him in @ChelseaFC ??
— ? (@CFCLamps_) April 30, 2020
Why rush for this oldy really is it because he has afree transfer?
— kato kanonya (@Katokanonya1) April 30, 2020
For a freebie it makes sense… adds to the squad while still getting more in…
— BlueWoods 25 (@bluewoods25) April 29, 2020
Um worried about his age abd whether he will put an average of 7/10 performance. Im not sure about him but the deal is enticing bcoz he will be a free agent
— Domicile herb (@domicileherb) April 30, 2020
32 years old? Please, let's keep searching the market.
— Samsudeen Mobolaji Popoola ?? (@SamPo_) April 29, 2020
Wow 32 ?
— Fredoooo (@NikeOvaHoez) April 29, 2020
We’ll take him!
— Jack Barton ??? ? (@JackkBarton) April 29, 2020
Mertens is perfect for our current situation. He provides good competition to Tammy as well as some experience and can play wide if needed and he’s free and doesn’t take up any of the budget.
— Liam O'Gorman (@CFC_LOG) April 29, 2020
I prefer werner or auba bt if we get him I'll support him
— Adan (@Adan06108838) April 29, 2020
It is true that Mertens will turn 33 next week, but the Belgian international has a number of things going for him. He is available on a free, which makes him a very good option in light of the current financial situation in football.
On top of that, he can play in a number of different positions. He can play up front as a main rival for Tammy Abraham or he could be a more than able replacement for either Pedro or Willian. Combined with his goal record and experience, the forward looks like a good piece of business.