Belgian outlet Voetbal Flitsen claim Leeds, Newcastle and Crystal Palace are all in the running to sign Napoli veteran Dries Mertens. The 35-year-old’s contract in Italy is about to expire and will become a free agent.
Napoli’s all-time record goalscorer with 148 goals, Mertens is set to end his nine-year spell with Napoli – just three games shy of 400. The race is hotting up to sign the free agent, and a move to England could come about.
- Newcastle and Tottenham want Leeds star, but Elland Road is his best move
- Robin Koch an unsung hero at right-back in Leeds’ final games of 21/22
Leeds have already made two signings in Brenden Aaronson and Rasmus Kristensen – but competition for Patrick Bamford and Joe Gelhardt is likely. Newcastle made Matty Targett’s loan a permanent deal on Wednesday.
Crystal Palace have numerous options up front in Jean-Philippe Mateta, Christian Benteke and Jordan Ayew – but could look to improve. The report claims Newcastle are best-positioned to get him, due to their financial prowess.
Newcastle, Palace and Leeds in running to sign Mertens
Mertens is a wonderful player. A pocket-sized striker in a similar mould to the likes of Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, in that he can play as a no.9 despite his 5ft 5in stature.
Mertens can also play as a false nine, a no.10 or on either flank. He has clocked up 104 caps for Belgium and shows no signs of slowing down – proof there are still many years left in his legs,
He would break the wage structure at Leeds. Palace could tempt him, living in London for the last couple of years of his career. But surely, the cash on offer at Newcastle will be tempting if he is to move to the Premier League.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
