Seriously, €28 million is dirt cheap for a player like Dries Mertens.
And the classy Belgium attacker has explained why he's got such a measly release clause, while talking about the offer he received from the mega-rich Chinese Super League in the summer.
Mertens has started the 2017/18 season in scintillating form. From the Serie A to the Champions League.
Mertens in action during the league and in Europe. Images: PA
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He's already weighed in with 13 goals in all competitions, as well as creating six. Including 10 in the league as Napoli remain unbeaten, top of the table.
Despite his heroics, Mertens has just a €28 million release clause. But Mertens has revealed he negotiated that in his contract.
"It's true, we negotiated that [clause] this summer," the 30-year-old told HLN on his current deal.
Mertens celebrates scoring for Napoli. Image: PA
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The Far East movement successfully lured some of the best talents from Europe, though failed to snap up the little maestro.
"Last winter I received an offer from China, I would've earned an incredible sum.
"But Napoli didn't want me to go, and I wanted to stay. So nothing came of it. 'But what if an offer like that were to come in again? That's why I wanted a release clause in my new contract.
"It's true €28m isn't much for a Chinese club, and it's a decent sum for Napoli too. At least, it was until Neymar went to Paris Saint-Germain, because now people treat €28m like it's nothing. 'I have become a bargain' - where do you find a player who scores 28 goals in Serie A and costs €28m? Nowhere, right? I negotiated well," Mertens added.
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He's not wrong.
Mertens and Lorenzo Insigne have forged a lethal partnership, this season. Image: PA
Chelsea and Arsenal have been heavily linked with Mertens' services. Will he leave Italy's top flight for the Premier League?
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News