Chelsea presented with two extra hurdles in battle for Napoli star

Chelsea now face competition from Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid in the race for Dries Mertens, according to reports.

Frank Lampard is desperate to capture the free signing of the prolific Napoli attacker when his contract expires at the end of the season, but is not the Belgian’s only admirer.

The Blues have already been battling with Inter Milan for his signature, while a faint chance remains that he could extend his contract at Napoli.

Chelsea’s chances of signing Mertens appeared to fade when it was revealed how much the forward enjoys living in Naples, and even if he does move on, there are now more hurdles for the Blues to overcome.

They come in the shape of Atletico Madrid and PSG, as the two European giants have now entered the race for Mertens, according to Mundo Deportivo – who cite reports from Belgium.

Diego Simeone wants to add a striker to his ranks for Atletico, and they have been linked with PSG’s Edinson Cavani, but the tactician is said to desire a forward with strong dribbling ability – a box which Mertens ticks.

 

 

 

Meanwhile, if PSG have to replace Cavani, or choose not to sign Mauro Icardi permanently after his loan spell from Inter Milan – potentially opening a surprise door for Arsenal – then Mertens could be an economical option for them.

Premier League rivals Liverpool and Newcastle United have also been suggested as potential suitors for Mertens, who became Napoli’s all-time leading goalscorer earlier this season.