Everton are interested in signing Arsenal target Dries Mertens, according to reports.
The Belgian forward had emerged as a target for the Gunners, with his Napoli contract set to expire at the end of the season.
Napoli chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis has reportedly offered the 32-year old a ‘take it or leave it’ offer to extend his time at the San Paolo, but so far he has failed to commit to it.
According to Calciomercato (via Sport Witness), Everton have now joined the race, that also includes Inter Milan and Borussia Dortmund.
The Toffees have recently appointed former Napoli boss Carlo Ancelotti as their new manager, and they may believe that Mertens’ previous relationship with the Italian coach could aid them in landing the forward.
Read Arsenal Verdict
Arsenal should expect to be the more likely destination for Mertens than Everton, although Ancelotti’s influence at Goodison Park could make things more difficult.
The Belgian would be a great signing for the Gunners as he could fill a number of positions for Mikel Arteta’s men, as well as provide genuine quality.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal could stave off the interest of Inter or Dortmund though, but they would certainly be able to compete financially.
