Transfer Talk: Maatsen on the move as Barca eye Chelsea prospect

Ian Maatsen could be on his way out of Chelsea next summer as uncertainty around his future continues.

The Dutch prospect has made six Premier League appearances this season but is not satisfied with his role under Mauricio Pochettino.

As the Netherlands prepare to take on Greece tonight, we take a look at what the coming months may hold for the 21-year-old.

Feeling blue

Maatsen spent a year with Chelsea's youth side before making the step up to the first team — earning his debut in a Carabao Cup clash with Grimsby in 2019.

The speedster showed promising signs on the pitch but did not look ready for the top flight and was sent on three different loan spells, most recently with Burnley.

He shone for the Clarets as they stormed to Championship glory last season, grabbing 10 goal contributions in 39 league matches.

And he was rewarded by Pochettino when he arrived back in Cobham with the opportunity to shine on the pre-season tour.

But with just 84 Premier League minutes under his belt so far this term, things are still looking blue for the Dutchman.

Poch's promise

Ahead of Chelsea's season opener against Liverpool, Pochettino claimed Maatsen was in his plans — that was before the Blues would go on to accept a deadline day bid from Burnley for the left-footed ace.

Poch said: "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."

The Argentine coach would then go on to explain why there was an accepted bid for the dynamic defender and hinted it was not his decision.

He added: "What I can tell you is that there are two sides [to the situation]. 

"If an offer appears, it is because another part of the club accepted that they move or they were trying to find a solution for a player that wanted to leave."

Barca brigade 

Reports over the summer claimed Maatsen is reluctant to sign a new deal at Stamford Bridge.

LaLiga champions Barcelona have been leading the race to sign the Oranje talent which would explain his uncertainty to remain at Chelsea despite the manager's promise.

Blaugrana boss Xavi would be able to speak to the full-back in January if a new contract has not been agreed ahead of a potential free move in the summer.

SPORT claim Maatsen is viewed as an ideal replacement for ex-Chelsea left-back Marcos Alonso, who is coming to the end of his time with the Catalan giants.

Time to shine

With Ben Chilwell suffering another lengthy injury, versatile Maatsen has the opportunity to impress any potential suitors if he gets the nod at left-back.

Levi Colwill was preferred to the youngster in the last top-flight outing but Maatsen is ready to step in whenever needed.

He said: "We are a team and when I get my opportunity I am always ready to help my team-mates and that's all I can do.

"We are a good team. We just need to believe in ourselves and we will perform well by leaving it all on the pitch."

Maatsen will be hoping he wins a first senior cap for his country in Athens tonight to further his claims for a starting berth.