Manchester United have reportedly reignited their interest in Dries Mertens, and are weighing up a £25 million summer move for the Napoli forward.
According to a report by The Sun, Dries Mertens is the subject of interest from Manchester United for a second successive summer transfer window. The Premier League heavyweights want to bolster their attack by signing the Napoli front-man, who has a release clause worth £25 million in his contract.
Mertens has enjoyed a stupendous rise in stature over the last two seasons – seasons which have seen him evolve into a prolific powerhouse. The Belgian has been a revelation ever since he was deployed in an unfamiliar role of a striker last season, and has been Napoli’s top scorer in the last two campaigns.
In 93 appearances across all competitions, Mertens has scored 56 goals while also providing 27 assists to be one of the most pivotal figures for the Partenopei. Unsurprisingly, he has had a lot of attention coming his way after enjoying a couple of stellar campaigns.
Several top clubs have been linked with the player in recent windows, with Manchester United holding a long-standing interest in him. The Red Devils even tried signing Mertens last season, before he chose to stay put at Napoli by signing a new deal with them. But, the Premier League heavyweights have reignited their interest in the player, and for good reason.
Manchester United’s attack has been much improved this season, but there are still some chinks in their armour that need addressing. With Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial linked with moves away from Old Trafford, Jose Mourinho will have no option beyond Romelu Lukaku upfront, should the duo indeed leave.
Secondly, Manchester United lack a player who can naturally operate on the right flank, provide width and a pacy outlet – a position that comes naturally to Mertens. Indeed, the Belgian international primarily operated on the right flank before he was deployed in a more central role by Maurizio Sarri.
Therefore, even if Rashford and Martial remain at Old Trafford next season, Mertens can be a useful, prolific option for Mourinho on the right flank. The player is, thus, a viable target for Manchester United, who have already contacted his entourage over a possible move in the summer.
What further makes Mertens an appealing prospect is his measly release clause, which is set at just £25 million. Manchester United shouldn’t have any hesitation shelling out the amount to sign him, and a move to Old Trafford could soon be a reality for the 31-year-old, who could be a fantastic short-term solution for Mourinho.
