Chelsea defender 'very keen' to join Manchester City in shock move

Chelsea are at risk of losing one of their bright young talents to Premier League rivals Manchester City, with the player himself reportedly keen to make the move north.

Chelsea have struggled for consistency so far this season and find themselves 10^th in the Premier League ahead of Saturday’s trip to face Newcastle.

While results have been mixed, there have been encouraging signs for manager Mauricio Pochettino in recent weeks.

Chelsea held champions Manchester City to a 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge in their final game before the international break.

But despite that positive result, one Blues player has reportedly set his sights on a move to the Etihad.

Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen, who was an unused substitute in the match against City, is keen to join Pep Guardiola's side, according to Football Insider.

Reports last month claimed Guardiola is considering a move for the 21-year-old in the January transfer window as he looks to bring in defensive cover.

Maatsen spent last season on loan at Burnley, playing a key role for the club to help them secure promotion to the Premier League under Vincent Kompany.

He is yet to start in the league since returning to Chelsea after coming close to leaving the west London club in the summer.

Chelsea accepted a £31.5m offer from Burnley to sign Maatsen on a permanent deal but the versatile Dutchman opted to stay and fight for his place under Pochettino.

Ian Maatsen spent last season on loan at Burnley (Image: Getty)

But he now appears to have lost patience with his lack of game time.

A source has told Football Insider that Maatsen would be "very keen" to join City if they were to launch a move for his signature.

It is claimed that the left-back wants to play first-team football more regularly.

He recently spoke out about "keeping his options open" and hinted at having to make a "difficult decision" in the near future.

Chelsea are said to be planning to offer Maatsen a new long-term deal to keep him at the club.

He only recently signed a contract extension until June 2025 after the club activated a 12-month clause in his current deal.

Topics: Chelsea, Football, Manchester City, Premier League, Transfers

Rory O'Callaghan

Rory O'Callaghan is Editorial Lead at SPORTbible. He has previously worked for Sky Sports News, MailOnline and Reach covering football, cricket, boxing and MMA. Tested daily as a Liverpool fan in a Manchester office.

@rory_ocallaghan