Ian Maatsen is yet to play a role at the European Championship. Even more so in Dortmund. But that could now be over.
As the usually well-informed transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports, Ian Maatsen, who was recently loaned out to Borussia Dortmund, is said to be on the radar of Premier League club Aston Villa. Chelsea FC have already given the green light. Villa are confident that they will be able to finalize the transfer by the end of the week.
“The Athletic” also provides figures. The 22-year-old Maatsen is said to have a six-year contract. According to “TheAthletic”, BVB would have had to draw a buy-out clause of 40 million euros, which is exclusive to the club, in order to sign Maatsen. This has now expired. Villa had been awarded the contract – for around 41 million euros.
BVB now has around 48 hours to respond to Villa’s offer, adds Sky. Maatsen himself wants to stay in Dortmund.
You can read more background information from our colleagues at WAZ.
In sporting terms at least, the transfer would not be inexplicable, and it would certainly be financially lucrative. Aston Villa will be competing in the Champions League for the first time next season. BVB will also be represented in the top flight.
Ian Maatsen’s loan move to Borussia Dortmund in the winter turned out to be a hit for both player and club. At BVB, the 22-year-old will get the match practice that he was denied at his home club Chelsea FC. And Dortmund have acquired a player who has solved the problem area on the left-hand side of the defense and has consistently put in strong performances. After his return from the Africa Cup, rival Ramy Bensebaini was no match for the Dutchman.
Maatsen played a total of 23 games for BVB, scoring three goals and providing two assists. He also reached the Champions League final with Dortmund, where he made an unfortunate mistake and allowed Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior to score to make the final score 2-0. In the end, it was the Whites who lifted the trophy at Wembley. All in all, however, it was a very successful loan for all sides – but one that could now come to an end.