Transfer News: Feyenoord plot move to sign Chelsea starlet Ian Maatsen
According to the Dutch publication Voetbal Primeur (h/t Football.London), Feyenoord are plotting a potential transfer for the signature of Chelsea star Ian Maatsen ahead of the next season. He has enjoyed an impressive campaign with Coventry City so far in the Championship and is being linked with an exit from his parent club.
The Blues had approved a season-long loan deal for Maatsen that saw him move to Coventry at the start of this term. He has quickly become a regular for them this season, having impressed in a short period of time. However, despite his displays, it is claimed that there is “little chance” for him to make a case with Thomas Tuchel at this stage.
With a first-team spot far from guaranteed in the next campaign, the Dutchman is being shortlisted by the Eredivisie side. He had joined the West London club back in 2018 after leaving PSV Eindhoven’s academy but could be in line to return to the Netherlands if the stars align for a transfer.
Does Maatsen have a future at Chelsea?
The 20-year-old has featured in 38 Championship games this season, scoring thrice and assisting once in the process. However, despite his progress, it would be far too early for him to even play as a backup option with the senior team. He could use more regular game time, and another loan move could help in that regard.
After all, Ben Chilwell will probably go straight back into the lineup when he returns from his long term injury next season. Marcos Alonso has struggled with consistency throughout this campaign which means that a decision on his future must be taken moving forward.
We could even potentially see Emerson Palmieri return from his loan spell with Olympique Lyonnais this summer. He could also help with our depth, while Kenedy is also an option, albeit not being someone reliable whom Tuchel can count on when needed.
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As such, cases can be made for Maatsen to have a role with us, although it would not be wise to expose the youngster to the risks of top-flight football when he still needs time to be ready. At the same time, we should keep hold of him as he could become a future superstar in the making moving forward.
With a contract until 2024, the Blues defender is safely tied down in the near future, although it would be best to renew his deal. However, if the West London side decides to part ways with him and entertain the Dutch club’s interest, we should include at least a buy-back clause or a sell-on option to give us more benefits in the future. Until then, let’s wait and see how this situation will develop in the months to come.