- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that the future of Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen is still unclear as Borussia Dortmund have run into problems getting the deal over the line.
Dutch left-back Ian Maatsen moved to Borussia Dortmund on loan in January and he excelled with the German side reaching the Champions League final at Wembley Stadium.
HITC have previously reported that Dortmund were keen on turning Maatsen’s and Jadon Sancho’s loan deals to permanent moves this summer.
We had previously reported that the German side were struggling to afford the fees demanded by Manchester United and Chelsea, which is understood to be £50 million for Sancho and £35 million for Maatsen.
Dortmund deal stalling
Sources have told HITC that Dortmund are still struggling to afford the release clause in the defender’s Chelsea contract.
Maatsen signed a new deal with Chelsea before moving to Dortmund in January, but that is understood to have included a release clause worth £35million.
During his six month loan spell at the Signal Iduna Park, Maatsen scored two goals and provided two assists for the German giants and performed superbly in the club’s run to the Champions League final, as mentioned.
Sources have told HITC that Dortmund remain hopeful that they could get a deal over the line for the Dutchman but if they can’t, they could face competition for his signature.
Dortmund face competition for Maatsen
HITC understands that if Dortmund don’t agree a deal for the signing of the defender, that there are teams in England who would be interested in the left-back.
Sources have told HITC that Manchester City and Aston Villa are two sides who are interested in the 23-year-old if a deal to take him to Germany isn’t agreed.
Chelsea have accepted that Maatsen sees his future away from Stamford Bridge and his sale would represent significant profit for the club given his is classed as homegrown having joined the club when he was just 16.
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