In a recent report, Sport stated that Barcelona are eyeing a move for Chelsea talent Ian Maatsen. It has been claimed that the Catalan club are weighing up a move to land the Dutch sensation next year.
Maatsen’s Lack Of Game Time At Stamford Bridge This Season
Maatsen has been a sporadic presence in Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino’s squad this season. He has struggled to nail down a regular starting place at Stamford Bridge but has done well to feature in eight matches for the Blues during this campaign across all fronts.
The Dutch youngster has seen all of his appearances come as a substitute which explains why is only averaging 0.3 tackles, 0.2 interceptions, 0.5 shots and 0.3 key passes per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has even been a bit careless when distributing the ball from the back based on his pass success rate of 68.9% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Maatsen is under contract at Chelsea until the end of this campaign. Hence, it makes sense for Barcelona to sign him on the cheap this winter.
Should Barcelona Boss Xavi Bring Maatsen On Board?
Maatsen can do a little bit of everything on the left flank. He is a good tackler of the ball and can even make a few driving runs with the ball out in the wide areas.
The Dutch wide player has even got the eye to play a few decisive passes in the final third. He is primarily a left-back but can also operate as a left-sided wide player or as an attacking midfielder if required.
At 21, Maatsen has got a bright future ahead of him which makes him a great, long-term option for Barcelona boss Xavi to consider next year. He is already good enough to challenge for a regular starting spot at the Nou Camp. Furthermore, the Dutch full-back could help Barca compete for some major honours over the next decade.
Hence, it makes sense for the Catalan club to go all out to bring Maatsen on board when the transfer window reopens at the start of next year. However, only time will tell how well the youngster can adapt to life in Spanish football.
