Chelsea hopeful that youngster will sign new deal

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino will be hoping that his side improve when the Premier League returns following the international break. 

The Blues have so far picked up just four points from a possible 12 after defeats to both West Ham United and Nottingham Forest, leaving them 12th in the table going into the two-week hiatus.

The West London outfit were among the busiest top flight clubs during the summer transfer window, with 12 players arriving at the club and more than 20 departing.

Cole Palmer was the latest star to join Pochettino’s squad, arriving from Premier League champions Manchester City on Friday in a deal worth around £42.5 million.

One player that was close to leaving Stamford Bridge on deadline day was Ian Maatsen, but the Dutchman ultimately stayed put and it now appears that those in charge of the club are keen to tie him down long-term.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are keen to persuade Maatsen to sign a new deal as he has less than 12 months remaining on his current one.

Maatsen could soon commit his long-term future to Chelsea

Maatsen, 21, is a product of Chelsea’s academy but had only made one senior appearance for the club prior to the start of the current campaign.

The Dutchman has been involved in four of Chelsea’s five matches so far this term, but his contract is set to expire next summer and he would therefore be able to sign a pre-contract agreement with any foreign club in January.

The player spent last season on loan at Burnley and played a pivotal role in helping Vincent Kompany’s side to the Championship title, making 39 league appearances in total.

Romano also claims that Chelsea had agreed to allow Maatsen to return to Turf Moor on an initial loan that would have included an obligation for the Clarets to buy the player for £31.5 million.

The player refused the move, though, instead deciding to fight for his place at Stamford Bridge.

Maatsen’s versatility could be useful for Pochettino this season, with the former Burnley man able to play in a number of roles including left-back, left wing and as an attacking midfielder.