Everton and Chelsea target Dries Mertens and Napoli have reached an agreement over the figure of his release clause in a proposed new contract.

The 29-year-old winger has been one of the top attacking forces in Europe this season and is currently Serie A’s second highest scorer with 25 goals in Italy’s top tier.




Clubs such as Manchester United and Chelsea have been linked with a move for Mertens in the summer and even Everton are said to be keeping tabs on him ahead of the window.

Napoli have been working hard over the last few months to reach an agreement over a new contract with Mertens’ agent and club president Aurelio De Laurentiis expressed confidence recently that a deal could be reached soon.
 


The inclusion of a release clause has been the bone of contention between both parties, but it seems they have finally found common ground as according to Italian broadcaster Premium Sport, a €35m figure will be inserted in the Belgian’s new contract.  

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However, the clause would only come into force next summer as Napoli look to hold on to the Belgian for next season as they hope to challenge Juventus for the Serie A title.

Mertens’ current deal expires at the end of next season but Napoli are quietly confident of holding on to the winger for at least one more season.