Man City ‘eye Chelsea raid’ as Ian Maatsen uncertainty looms large after impasse
Mauricio Pochettino makes quick Nicolas Jackson U-turn after difficult Chelsea start
Manchester City are among the clubs circling Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen after he entered the final 12 months of his contract this summer. Maatsen put his name on the map during a stellar loan spell at Burnley last season, and now interest in his signature is mounting as he weighs up his options.
The 21-year-old returned to Stamford Bridge with a year of his deal left, and he is yet to agree terms on an extension.
Chelsea attempted to offload him in the closing stages of the transfer window, accepting a season-long loan offer from Burnley that included a £31.5million obligation to buy.
But Maatsen rejected the chance to reunite with Vincent Kompany at Turf Moor, and the Blues’ desire to cash in on him may have complicated talks over his future in west London.
According to 90min, City are among the suitors hoping for a cut-price capture of the Netherlands U21 international.
A natural left-back is said to be among Pep Guardiola’s top transfer priorities, but the transfer deadline has left Maatsen’s future in Chelsea’s hands.
The report adds that talks between Maatsen and the club will continue over the coming weeks as Chelsea look to cement his future in Mauricio Pochettino’s project.
READ MORE Graham Potter ‘in talks to join overseas club’ five months after Chelsea sacking[NEWS]
Chelsea are allegedly hopeful of striking an extension agreement with the Cobham academy graduate despite heavyweight interest from elsewhere.
Pochettino is a huge admirer of Maatsen and has handed him appearances in four of the Blues’ five games this season.
Maatsen has acted as cover for Ben Chilwell and is ahead of £60m signing Marc Cucurella in the Argentine’s pecking order.
He is destined for more minutes this season – despite Chelsea’s absence from European football – in the Premier League and domestic cup competitions.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
DON’T MISS
Chelsea can dominate England with eight wonderkids as another new signing close[TRANSFERS]
Chelsea icon John Terry ‘on verge joining new club’ to seal first manager role[NEWS]
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly’s clever transfer tactic comes to light[GOSSIP]
During pre-season, Pochettino insisted that Maatsen was in his plans for his maiden campaign as Chelsea boss.
He told club media: “I am so happy with him. He is a player that can play in different positions. He has quality, he understands the game, and he is such a clever player.
“So far, he is in my plan, yes. I am so pleased with him, as I’ve said, because of his attitude, commitment and his understanding of the game.
“He is a player that you can use in different positions, and that is a good thing for the team and the coaching staff. It is always good to have this type of player.”
Follow Daily Express on Threads for all the latest news
Source: Read Full Article