Manchester City are “admirers” of Chelsea fullback Ian Maatsen, according to The Athletic journalist Simon Johnson.
Although manager Pep Guardiola has been deploying Josko Gvardiol and Nathan Ake on the left-hand side of defence this season, it is believed that a move for Maatsen could come under consideration.
The Dutchman’s contract at Stamford Bridge has 18 months left to run and it is believed that Chelsea would be open to selling the defender for the right price.
Marc Cucurella’s injury may lead to the Blues being less willing to offload Maatsen but his lack of game time (especially in his favourite position at left-back) suggests head coach Mauricio Pochettino would not be against letting him leave.
Maatsen started his first Premier League game of the season on Wednesday night in the 2-1 win over Crystal Palace, but he played on the right wing and was substituted before the hour mark.
How much would the Chelsea star cost?
A £31.5m bid from Burnley was accepted for Maatsen before the transfer window closed in the summer. At the time, the Blues hadn’t triggered their option to extend the fullback’s contract for another year, but it’s unlikely that they will hold out for much more than the aforementioned fee in January.
Maatsen did reject that move to Burnley as he wanted to fight for his place at Chelsea. However, after having played just 376 minutes in all competitions this season, he may now reconsider his stance on moving teams.
Will City have competition for Maatsen?
In addition to Burnley, West Ham have also been credited with an interest in the 21-year-old in recent months.
You would have to say though that, if Maatsen has a choice between moving to the Etihad or the London Stadium, he will almost certainly choose the former.