According to a report from Evening Standard, Manchester City are one of the clubs keeping a close eye on Chelsea full-back Ian Maatsen. Maatsen finds himself in the last year of his Chelsea contract following an impressive loan stint at Burnley. Despite declining the opportunity to return to Turf Moor this summer, Maatsen could be in line for a more significant move in the upcoming year.
Maatsen’s Impressive Rise In English Football
Ian Maatsen has had an impressive rise in English football since joining Chelsea’s academy in 2018. The Dutch left-back has been loaned out to several clubs in recent seasons, including Charlton Athletic, Coventry City, and most recently, Burnley. He has impressed at each club, and he is now considered to be one of the brightest young prospects in English football.
He has an impressive loan spell at Burnley last season as he made 40 appearances, scoring four goals and producing six assists, in all competitions. He did well both offensively and defensively, as he averaged 2.0 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 0.9 shots and 1.0 key passes per game in the English Championship. He was also accurate in his ball distribution after completing 83.5% of his attempted passes in the second tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
Should Guardiola Bring Him To Manchester City Next Summer?
Maatsen is a technically gifted player with a good crossing ability. He is also a good defender and he is strong in the tackle. He is known for his work ethic and his willingness to learn. Additionally, he can also score some odd goals from time to time and does well to create opportunities for his teammates in the final third.
Maatsen is a talented young player with a bright future ahead of him. He has all the attributes to be a successful footballer, and he is sure to make a name for himself in the years to come.
If Joao Cancelo makes a permanent exit to Barcelona with a buy option included in his loan contract to Barcelona, then City will need to find a replacement for him. Maatsen could be a good option, but he is not the only option. However, he could become a great financial prospect for the Etihad club in the near future and that proposes an exiting opportunity for the Sky Blues.
Furthermore, there is a chance that they could secure his services without a transfer fee next summer, although this scenario is deemed unlikely given that Chelsea may propose a contract extension. However, if such an extension does not materialise, it could present a clever and advantageous opportunity for the Manchester-based club.
