Manchester United are interested in acquiring the services of Napoli star Dries Mertens, according to the Italian club’s former director.

Mertens is one of the hottest forwards on the planet at the moment, and has been linked with a big move away from the club after a sensational season last term where he scored 28 goals. This season the Belgian international’s form has been just as good, and he has started the campaign brilliantly with 7 goals and 2 assists as Napoli maintain their 100% record in Serie A.

Despite signing a new contract in May this year, rumours of Mertens’ departure have continued to rumble on, and United and Chelsea have both been heavily linked with a move for him. It was believed that Merten’s transfer fee would be extortionate, but the club’s former director Pierpaolo Marino has revealed that a €28m (£25m) release clause is inserted in the player’s contract.

“The €28m clause is likely to be a low price even if he is 30,” Marino told Italian newspaper Tuttosport.

“It turns out that United are following him very closely.”

The player himself also revealed interest from Chelsea over the summer, saying that the Blues had tried to sign him, but he opted to remain in Italy.

“Yes there was interest [from Chelsea], and from other clubs also,” he said.

“But in my head there was never an intention to change clubs. This season was really good. I am gong to try and be even better next year.”