Chelsea have been dealt a blow in their summer transfer plans with Dries Mertens.

Chelsea have been dealt a blow in their plans to sign Dries Mertens, who is looking to stay in the Serie A should his Napoli contract expire.

Belgian is a target at Stamford Bridge but is also wanted by Inter Milan. [AFP/GETTY]

Belgium forward Mertens has confirmed Chelsea's interest in his services.

Chelsea transfer target Dries Mertens has poured cold water on rumours linking him with a move away from Napoli. Reports suggest the Belgium international's situation at the San Paolo Stadium is being monitored by the Blues and Serie A giants Inter Milan. The 33-year-old, however, has revealed he would be happy to continue in Serie A even if his contract at Naples expires in the coming months.

More: Ex-Chelsea boss backs Lampard to be successful at Stamford Bridge. According to Sky Sports Italia, the winger would prioritise a move to the San Siro over a switch to the Premier League. "Yes there is a buy-out clause. But I'm happy at Napoli and I want to stay. I really like Italy. I am good there and they treat me good," Mertens told reporters as Sky Sports reported. "Yes there was interest [from Chelsea], and from other clubs also, but in my head there was never an intention to change clubs. This season was really good. I am going to try and be even better next year."

More: Pulisic is pleased with how Dortmund continue to embrace youngsters.

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