Napoli sign Mertens

Napoli have completed the signing of Belgian winger Dries Mertens from PSV Eindhoven.

The 27-year-old has signed a five-year contract and becomes new boss Rafael Benitez’s second signing since his arrival following the permanent acquisition of Pablo Armero from Udinese.

Napoli owner Aurelio De Laurentiis took to Twitter to confirm the news on Monday, writing: “I am happy to tell you that a few minutes ago I closed the deal with PSV for Dries Mertens.

“In the last few days Dries has been in Naples. He told me that he fell in love with our city, with its greatness. Welcome Dries!”

Mertens began his senior career with provincial Belgian club AGOVV Apeldoorn, having spent time in the youth academies of both Gent and Anderlecht.

After impressing with Apeldoorn, the attacker moved on to Eredivisie outfit Utrecht and went on to score 21 goals in 86 appearances.

That form facilitated another big move to PSV, where Mertens spent two years and secured one KNVB Cup success.

Mertens has 19 caps with the Belgian national team, and has scored two goals at international level.