Ian Maatsen’s loan spell at Borussia Dortmund ends next month, but it’s unknown if he’ll return to Chelsea.
The 22-year-old has flourished getting regular football in Germany, so he won’t want a subsidiary role back in West London.
Maatsen has been at Chelsea for six years, but he’s spent more time out on loan than at Stamford Bridge.
- Charlton Athletic (2020/21): 35 appearances, 1 goal, 3 assists
- Coventry City (2021/22): 42 appearances, 3 goals, 1 assist
- Burnley (2022/23): 42 appearances, 4 goals, 6 assists
- Chelsea (2023/24): 15 appearances (376 minutes), 0 goals, 0 assists
So after the Blues tried to sell the Dutchman permanently to Burnley in 2023, Maatsen now knows he’s expendable.
What does Maatsen want this summer?
Patrick Berger of Sky Germany says Maatsen wants to leave Chelsea when the season comes to a close. He’s due to return to Cobham for pre-season training but would prefer to stay at Borussia Dortmund.
The 22-year-old joined BVB on loan in January and has made 16/16 appearances in all competitions. Maatsen has amassed 1259 minutes from a possible 1440 (87.4%), so he’s quickly become an important player.
In just four months at Dortmund, Maatsen has made more appearances than his six years at Chelsea. The Bundesliga outfit are still in the Champions League and could seal a spot for next season, so they trump Chelsea.
Bayern Munich are reportedly also interested in the left-back, so Chelsea might have offers this summer.
What are Chelsea likely to do?
Chelsea are worried about the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, so they’re open to sell valuable assets. Maatsen has a €35m (£30m) release clause, so the Blues likely won’t accept a penny lower.
Mauricio Pochettino has Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella and Ben Chilwell who can operate at left-back, so they have options. Chelsea paid a minimal fee for Maatsen as a youth signing in 2018, so they’ll make a lot profit if he’s sold. For a player that hasn’t made an impact in West London, it makes business sense to cash in.
A move would suit all parties.
