Could a Borussia Dortmund starlet be Manchester City’s solution at left-back? Ian Maatsen has starred for the Bundesliga side since joining the club on loan from Chelsea. His strong form has reportedly put him on the radar of several clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.
One of those clubs is reportedly Manchester City, who has recently sent scouts to see Maatsen in action. Milo Clay has reported an exclusive from Graeme Bailey for TBR football that the world champions had scouts present during Borussia Dortmund’s 1-nil win over PSG earlier this week. Furthermore, Milo Clay reports that Aston Villa and Bayern Munich have been monitoring the progress of the Borussia Dortmund starlet in recent weeks.
It is also included in TBR Football’s report that there is a £35 million release clause in Maatsen’s Chelsea contract. The release clause means it would be an easy deal to complete if Manchester City were to make a move for the young defender this summer.
Ian Maatsen does tick a lot of boxes to potentially become a Manchester City player.
On closer inspection, Ian Maatsen does appear to be a player who could step in and play a role at Manchester City. Given that he is a natural left-back, he would immediately bring something that has been lacking from the world champions squad. Manchester City primarily uses Josko Gvardiol and Nathan Ake in the position. Neither are specialists in the position, but both are accomplished players in the position in their own right. However, Ian Maatsen would bring specialist cover to the position if he were to join the treble winners.
Ian Maatsen can play as an overlapping wing-back or can slot into midfield as an inverted full-back. That versatility would seem to make him an ideal prospect to slot into Pep Guardiola’s squad. He has shown both of those traits at an elite level for Borussia Dortmund this season. Maatsen also possesses quality in the passing game, which has made him a valuable weapon for Borussia Dortmund this season. He is also competent defensively, meaning he does appear as a quality all-around prospect at left-back.
Manchester City could land a potential gem if they do move for Ian Maatsen.
Based on Maatsen’s impressive displays for Dortmund this campaign, it is clear to see why he is so highly sought after this summer. He does appear to be a player who could find a role at Manchester City. If the champions do seek a left-back this summer, Maatsen may be the ideal player to join Pep Guardiola’s squad. With his quality and immense potential, the Dutch defender has the tools required to be a valuable member of the world champions squad for next season and beyond.
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