Manchester United and Chelsea have reportedly been handed a boost in the race to sign Napoli forward Dries Mertens.

With the Belgium international having less than six months remaining on his contract, the latter were interested in securing a deal in January, only for a move to never materialise during the closing hours of the transfer window.

While Mertens can still hold discussions with foreign clubs, the 32-year-old remaining in Naples has provided his current team with an opportunity to agree fresh terms.

However, according to the Daily Mail, the Italian giants have made little progress in recent negotiations with the long-serving frontman.

The report says that Mertens, who has scored 10 times this season, is increasingly likely to sign for a new side on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Arsenal are also said to be monitoring the situation ahead of a possible approach.