Aston Villa and the representatives of Ian Maatsen are reportedly in touch every day over a move for the Chelsea academy graduate.
According to a report by Football Insider, Ian Maatsen is the subject of interest from Aston Villa. The Villans are holding daily talks with the Dutchman’s representatives over a possible move in the summer transfer window. However, Chelsea’s asking price of £35 million for the academy graduate is a cause for concern for the West Midlands outfit.
Ian Maatsen and his Chelsea frustrations
Ian Maatsen is eager to find a stable footing in his career as he approaches his mid-twenties. The 22-year-old, who made swift progress in the youth division at Chelsea after arriving from PSV Eindhoven, graduated from the West London club’s academy a few years ago. However, he has only managed regular game time during his four loan spells away from Stamford Bridge.
The Dutchman has flourished during his loan stints with Charlton Athletic, Coventry City, Burnley, and Borussia Dortmund. The latest spell saw him play a leading role as the Bundesliga outfit reached the UEFA Champions League final. Maatsen was exceptional in his 23 outings, starting 22 times while chipping in with three goals and two assists.
Maatsen’s impact at Signal Iduna Park has compelled Borussia Dortmund to seek a permanent move in the summer transfer window. However, with Chelsea demanding £35 million, the value of his release clause, the Bundesliga giants are struggling to complete their desired deal. Meanwhile, the Dutch full-back is a target for Aston Villa.
Aston Villa interested
Aston Villa’s interest in Ian Maatsen is understandable. The Villans are scouring the market for a left-back heading into the summer transfer window. While Unai Emery has two left-backs in his squad, he is not happy with the levels of Lucas Digne and Alex Moreno. So, the Chelsea academy graduate has emerged as a viable target for Aston Villa.
However, the Villans are not ready to cough up £35 million to secure Ian Maatsen’s services in the summer transfer window. Aston Villa and the Dutchman’s representatives are in regular contact over a possible move.
But paying £35 million is an issue for Ian Maatsen’s suitors. While Borussia Dortmund will not get anywhere close to Chelsea’s valuation, Aston Villa will aim to negotiate the asking price. It will be interesting to see where the 22-year-old Dutch full-back plies his trade next season.
