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Royal Antwerp Hot on the Trail on Lazio Target Mertens

Originally posted on The Laziali  |  By Apollo Heyes  |  Last updated 6/20/22

Lazio are seriously pushing to convince Dries Mertens of a move to the Italian capital but now they’ll have to fight off competition from Royal Antwerp.

The 35-year-old Belgian forward still has not agreed a contract renewal with Napoli and he’s currently set to leave the club at the end of this month. Coach Maurizio Sarri is desperate to be reunited with Mertens in Rome and the pair have been in constant contact.

More Stories about Dries Mertens
Royal Antwerp Hot on the Trail on Lazio Target Mertens 20 June 2022, 11:30
Sarri in Close Contact With Mertens Over Lazio Move 15 June 2022, 9:30
Lazio Target Mertens on Napoli Renewal: ‘I Haven’t Heard From Anyone’ 14 June 2022, 9:30

As reported by Il Roma (via LazioNews24), Royal Antwerp coach Mark Van Bommel also wants to be reunited with Mertens and the Belgian club are ready to offer the 35-year-old a two-year contract with an attractive salary.

Whilst Mertens is interested in a move to Lazio, the idea of playing second fiddle behind Ciro Immobile isn’t the most convincing. Now he’s considering making a return to his native Belgium, 15 years after his departure.

There is still a chance that the Belgian forward could renew his contract with Napoli, but his recent statements to the media confirmed that no talks had taken place yet, meaning things would have to be carried out quickly if the Partenopei want to secure their man before his deal expires.

Mertens scored 11 goals and provided two assists in 30 Serie A appearances this season under Luciano Spalletti.

This article first appeared on The Laziali and was syndicated with permission.

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