Chelsea exercise option in Giroud’s contract & continue to pursue Mertens

There maybe no games on the pitch but Chelsea are active on the transfer market. The Blues have in fact exercised their option to extend Olivier Giroud's contract through June of 2021, the World Cup champion had been a target for both Inter and Napoli during the January window. The two Serie A clubs remained interested in acquiring Giroud, but they will not be able to do so on a Bosman deal.

In the meantime Chelsea are also still pursuing Dries Mertens. There have been some direct contacts between Frank Lampard and the Belgian striker who has yet to extend his expiring contract with Napoli. Should Chelsea be able to convince Mertens, they would be more likely to move Giroud for a small return after extending his contract.