West Ham reportedly make surprise approach for prolific attacker

West Ham have reportedly made a surprise £25 million approach for Manchester United target Dries Mertens but Italian source Gonfialarete have claimed that Napoli have rejected the offer.

The Hammers will definitely have to bolster their attack during the summer. The club have endured a disappointing season with Jonathan Calleri and Simone Zaza flopping in front of goal while Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho have been hampered by injuries.

It is unlikely that Mertens would prefer a move to the East London club as they cannot challenge for trophies.

Manchester United are also said to have been keen on luring the Belgian international, with Jose Mournho reported to have sent scouts to watch him in action in the Serie A during the weekend.

As the 29-year-old’s contract expiring in 2018, he is however apparently closing in on a new contract with Napoli which would see him remain with the Serie A club.