Manchester City are now watching Ian Maatsen closely as his contract runs down at Chelsea – with the Citizens expected to front the queue for his signature.
That is according to TEAMtalk.
So, what is the latest on Manchester City and Ian Maatsen? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, it was 90min who claimed that Pep Guardiola is monitoring the Dutchman as he refuses to sign a new contract at Stamford Bridge.
Now – according to TEAMtalk – Manchester City are expected to be at the front of the queue for Maatsen in 2024 alongside West Ham.
It is said that sources close to Manchester City believe the Chelsea No.29’s attributes and profile are of real interest to Guardiola’s recruitment staff at the Etihad Stadium.
Sources add that Manchester City’s admiration of Maatsen indicates a desire to find a new types of option at left-back.
Chelsea are currently trying to keep the 21-year-old in west London, although the general feeling is that the Blues simply want to preserve their academy graduate’s value rather than make him a first-team regular.
Maatsen himself does not see a clear pathway and is therefore refusing to sign a new deal.
The Netherlands Under-21 international was actually the subject of a £31.5m bid from Burnley on transfer deadline day, which Chelsea accepted, only for the player himself to reject the Clarets.
Manchester City face Barcelona competition for Ian Maatsen
While some may not be too worried about West Ham’s presence in the race to sign Maatsen, there is more fierce competition in the form of Barcelona.
TEAMtalk believe the Spanish giants have been tracking the Vlaardingen-born prospect for two years now, and even wanted to sign him while he was on loan at Coventry.
Despite their struggles in recent years, Barcelona remain one of the most attractive clubs on the planet, so Manchester City certainly have a fight on their hands to sign Maatsen.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Chelsea are likely to sell the Dutchman in January if no progress is made over a new contract.
