Ian Maatsen, a full-back for Chelsea, has acknowledged that he is keeping “options open” in light of Manchester City’s interest.
After an incredibly successful season on loan at Burnley, Maatsen returned to Chelsea in the summer, but he hasn’t established himself as a mainstay at Stamford Bridge under new boss Mauricio Pochettino.
During the 2023–24 Premier League season, the Dutch youth international has only managed to accrue 107 minutes of playing time and has yet to start a game for the Blues.
On the final day of the summer transfer window, the full-back was given the option to rejoin Burnely after Chelsea agreed to sell him for £31.5 million. But Maatsen turned down the opportunity to play alongside Vincent Kompany at Turf Moor once more.
Ever since, Chelsea has been eager to sign the player to a new contract in an effort to keep him from leaving as a free agent’s own after his current one ends in June 2024. The Blues have reportedly activated a clause that would extend the 21-year-old’s contract by 12 months, until 2025, according to a recent 90min article.
Even after activating the provision, Chelsea is still eager to lock Maatsen into a longer-term contract. However, the team will consider selling the full-back if a deal isn’t agreed before January.
Regarding his future at Chelsea, Maatsen himself acknowledged to AD that he wants to leave his options open.
“I still think it’s possible to play more at Chelsea,” he stated. “As a young boy, you always want more, so it’s hard to accept that you won’t play. The manager’s remarks give me confidence, and I’m prepared for the moment when it arises.
“I have to keep my options open in the meanwhile. Later on, I could have to make a tough choice, but Chelsea will also inform me.”
Manchester City is among the teams keeping an eye on Maatsen’s circumstances at Stamford Bridge, sources told 90min. The Premier League winners are eager to get a natural left-back in January, and they are open to making a low-cost transfer for the young Dutch player.
