Aston Villa have agreed a deal with Chelsea to sign Dutch star Ian Maatsen, sources have confirmed to HITC.
Maatsen’s future has been the subject of intense speculation in recent weeks after he finished the season on-loan at Borussia Dortmund.
The left-back played a huge rule in them making the Champions League final, which they lost to Real Madrid, but the German side made it clear they wanted to keep the 22-year-old.
However, issues emerged and HITC confirmed earlier this month that Dortmund were struggling to finalise a deal for Maatsen and others sides, including Aston Villa, were showing a strong interest.
Chelsea’s Ian Maatsen agrees long-term deal with Aston Villa
HITC can now confirm via sources with knowledge of the situation that Villa moved to agree terms with Chelsea, after Maatsen made it clear he was ready to move to Villa Park.
Maatsen had given Dortmund time, but once it became clear they would not meet Chelsea’s asking price – he gave the green-light to his representatives to pursue the Villa deal earlier this week and now terms have been agreed.
Maatsen had a clause in his contract that was signed in January ahead of his loan to Dortmund that would allow him to leave this summer for £35million – but the two clubs have agreed terms on a normal transfer, which is slightly above that amount.
Maatsen’s representatives are now finalising his terms, but it is understood the deal is until 2030 and will be signed once he has undergone a medical – which will take place in Germany as Maatsen is on Euro 2024 duty with The Netherlands.
Ian Maatsen had nothing to prove to Chelsea
Some Chelsea fans will wonder why Maatsen was allowed to leave Stamford Bridge this summer, but the player revealed before the Champions League final that he has already done enough to show his capabilities to the West London giants.
“I have nothing to prove to Chelsea, I only have something to prove to myself,” he said.
“My focus has always been on performing to the best of my abilities and contributing to the team’s success. Whether it’s in training or during matches, I aim to give my all and make the most of every opportunity.
“It’s important to stay humble and keep working hard, I know that there is always room for improvement, and I strive to be better every day. The support from the fans and the club has been amazing, and I want to make them proud.”
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