As reported by Evening Standard, Mauricio Pochettino has told Ian Maatsen he wants to keep him at Chelsea, and contract renewal talks have already started. The 21-year-old impressed during the pre-season tour in the United States, scoring two goals and providing one assist, despite playing out of position.
Maatsen expressed his desire to stay at Chelsea but wants assurances about his development plan before signing a new deal. However, he has only one year left on his current contract, and other clubs are showing interest in him. West Ham is considered a frontrunner, with Burnley, Ajax, and Lens also interested.
Earlier this summer, Chelsea was willing to let Maatsen go for £20 million plus add-ons, rejecting a £15 million bid from Burnley in June. If he stays, he can play left-back, a winger or No. 10 in Pochettino's new 4-2-3-1 system at Stamford Bridge next season.
Lewis Hall is in talks to join Crystal Palace on loan, which could open up a potential first-team chance for Maatsen.
