Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has reportedly been in direct contact with Dries Mertens after following the Napoli forward on social media.
Mertens is said to have his heart set on a move to Stamford Bridge once his contract with Napoli expires at the end of the season.
Italian daily Il Mattino claims that the Belgium international is the first name on Chelsea's transfer wishlist, with Lampard recently following the player on Instagram.
The Blues boss is thought to have discussed a switch to Chelsea with Mertens, who has 12 goals in 29 appearances for Napoli this season.
Should he arrive, the 33-year-old will provide some competition in attack following the expected departures of Willian and Pedro this summer.
Written by
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
