Chelsea are in a race against time to secure the long-term future of Ian Maatsen amid interest from European giants Barcelona.
The 21-year-old was heavily linked with Stamford Bridge exit this summer following an impressive performance while out on loan at Burnley last season.
Maatsen featured 39 times for Vincent Kompany's men as they eased to Championship promotion, with the youngster contributing towards ten goals from left-back.
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Amid reported interest from Europe’s elite after the loan, the Dutchman was granted a starring role at Chelsea in pre-season.
Once the campaign started however it was a different story. After eight Premier League games, Maatsen had played just 83 minutes, despite Ben Chilwell being absent through injury.
Instead, Levi Colwill, a centre-back by trade, has operated at left-back.
Despite his limited game-time, Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino stressed in the summer he was a huge fan of Maatsen: "I am so happy with him. He is a player that can play in different positions.
"He has quality, he understands the game, and he is such a clever player. So far, he is in my plan, yes. I am so pleased with him, as I’ve said, because of his attitude, commitment and his understanding of the game."
Despite Pochettino’s praise, Maatsen still faces an uncertain future at Chelsea with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, and Barcelona are said to be keen on signing the Netherlands Under-21 star.
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According to Spanish publication SPORT, the Catalan giants are exploring the possibility of signing Maatsen at the end of the season.
The report claims Xavi Hernandez’s side will make a final decision in January when they'll be eligible to begin pre-contract talks with the player.
Chelsea risk losing a player Transfermarkt valued at £17million for free, should Barcelona act on their reported interest.
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Topics: Football, Transfers, Chelsea, Barcelona, Premier League
Chris Byfield