Aston Villa target Chelsea's £35m star as Digne's replacement, price a concern

Aston Villa are ramping up their efforts to secure the services of Chelsea's promising left-back Ian Maatsen, as they look to strengthen their defensive line-up for the forthcoming season. However, the club is currently hesitant to match Chelsea's £35 million valuation of the player.

Villa manager Unai Emery is keen on adding the 22-year-old Dutch defender to his squad, recognising the need for depth and quality following the team's qualification for the Champions League. Football Insider reports that Villa are in daily contact with Maatsen's representatives, signalling their strong interest in the player.

Maatsen's impressive stint at Borussia Dortmund during the second half of the previous season, where he contributed three goals and two assists in 23 appearances, played a pivotal role in the Bundesliga side's journey to the Champions League final.

Despite Dortmund's interest in making the loan deal permanent, they have been put off by the substantial release clause, a sentiment shared by Aston Villa.

Villa acknowledge Maatsen's potential and the necessity for a long-term solution at left-back, given that current options Lucas Digne and Alex Moreno are both in their early 30s. The Dutch youngster could provide a youthful and dynamic alternative for the future.

However, Villa's pursuit of Maatsen is complicated by potential player exits and financial constraints. The club must raise £60 million in player sales after their Profit and Sustainability Ratio (PSR) proposal was rejected by fellow Premier League clubs, which could impact their ability to target high-value players.

The potential departure of key midfielder Douglas Luiz to Juventus is another factor that could shape Villa's transfer strategy, although the club is set to receive Weston McKennie and Samuel Iling-Junior in a swap deal.

Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig has lauded Maatsen's performances, describing the left-back as "fantastic" during his time at Dortmund and highlighting his impressive statistics, including passing accuracy, chance creation, and defensive contributions.

As Villa continue their daily dialogue with Maatsen's representatives, fans eagerly await news of a potential breakthrough. The club's ambition to establish themselves as a force in English and European football is evident, and the acquisition of a talent like Maatsen would be a step in the right direction.

While financial hurdles remain a challenge, Villa's determination to secure Maatsen's signature underscores their belief in his abilities and potential impact at Villa Park.

As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether the two clubs can reach an agreement that satisfies both parties and paves the way for Maatsen to embark on a new chapter in his promising career.