Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Chelsea are about to receive their first official bid for one of their first team players.
The Blues are expected to sell plenty of stars this summer in order to facilitate another window where they sign some new players.
It is likely that they are looking to give plenty of backing to new manager Enzo Maresca ahead of his first season in charge after handing him a lengthy contract.
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When looking at who could be on the chopping block, it is easy to imagine that some of those who were on loan last season are likely to be first to go.
One of their most successful loanees last season was Ian Maatsen, who recently featured in the Champions League final as part of the Borussia Dortmund side.
While he came up short, and was perhaps at fault for one of the goals, it did not take away from his superb campaign.
Because of his talents, it was clear that the Bundesliga side were going to want to bring him in permanently.
Borussia Dortmund about to make first bid for Maatsen
Romano claimed on Twitter that the initial bid is expected very soon, however it is not going to reach the release clause in his contract.
He said: “Borussia Dortmund initial proposal for Ian Maatsen will be around €25m, in order to start talks with Chelsea. Release clause is £35m, clubs expected to discuss in the next days. Maatsen, BVB priority but they need different price or will consider alternatives.”
There is certainly an argument that he could be a perfect player to feature in Maresca’s traditional system, with his ability to invert being key.
However, the fact the club also have Ben Chilwell and Marc Cucurella in that role suggests someone will have to be sold this summer for sure, and Maatsen looks the easiest option at this stage.
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