Mertens relishing Napoli move

Mertens relishing Napoli move

Published Jul. 15, 2013 3:16 p.m. ET

Dries Merten said the opportunity to play in the Champions League was a factor in his choice to sign for Napoli, saying it was a decision from the heart.

The 26-year-old forward joined the Serie A club from PSV Eindhoven for 9.5million euros (£8.2m) after two years with the Eredivisie side.

Today the Belgian was presented to the press and revealed why he had joined Rafael Benitez's team.

He told reporters: "The Champions League is a reason why I came to Naples. It will be exciting to play at that level.

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"I know Serie A is a tough competition. I will do everything to adapt to Italian football and the language."

Mertens scored 45 goals in two years at PSV and said the decision to join Napoli was "a choice from my heart".

He added: "We have a strong selection of great footballers. Everyone should act in the interest of the club.

"It's important for me to come to play but the results of Napoli override everything.

"I think Napoli is a very strong team and I hope I can repay the confidence the club has in me."

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