Napoli attacking midfielder Dries Mertens says his move to Chelsea collapsed last summer because manager Antonio Conte didn't make contact.
The 30-year-old was one of the best players in this season's Serie A as he took over from Gonzalo Higuain in Maurizio Sarri's squad.
He was also a target for Spanish giants Barcelona but he is now looking forward to enjoying another season with Napoli in the Serie A.
"I never considered playing for another Italian side, even though Serie A is great," he told reporters.
"Chelsea wanted me, but manager Antonio Conte didn't call me. I probably would have played there, but Napoli are on the same level.
"It's true Barcelona sought me out, but what point is there in joining and then sitting on the bench behind [Lionel] Messi, [Luis] Suarez and Neymar?"
