Chelsea trigger extension in defender’s contract

Chelsea will be hoping to continue their good run of form when they face Arsenal on Saturday. 

Mauricio Pochettino’s side started the Premier League season poorly, winning just one of their first six games, but have since beaten both Fulham and Burnley.

Those results have moved the Blues up to 11th in the top flight table, but the Gunners will undoubtedly provide a stern test for Pochettino’s side at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Mikel Arteta’s side are currently second in the Premier League table, having beaten reigning champions Manchester City 1-0 in their final game before the international break.

Ahead of the visit of their London rivals, Chelsea have reportedly made a big call on the future of one of their players.

Maatsen’s contract has been extended until 2025

As reported by 90min, the club have triggered a clause in Ian Maatsen’s contract to extend his current deal by a further 12 months.

The player’s deal had been set to expire next summer but, after failing to make progress during discussions over a new contract, Chelsea have triggered the clause to keep Maatsen at the club until the summer of 2025.

Despite this, the report claims that the Blues could still sell the Dutchman next summer if he doesn’t commit his long term future to Stamford Bridge.

Maatsen, 19, is a graduate of Chelsea’s youth academy and has made eight appearances for the Blues so far this season, although he is yet to start a Premier League game.

Naturally a left-back, Maatsen is also able to operate comfortably on either wing, as well as in an advanced midfield role.

The versatile player spent last season on loan at Burnley and played a pivotal role as Vincent Kompany’s side secured promotion to the Premier League by winning the Championship title.

Over the summer, Chelsea accepted an offer from the Clarets for Maatsen, but the permanent move never materialised.