Aston Villa has made a significant addition to their squad, signing Netherlands defender Ian Maatsen from Premier League rivals Chelsea. The club announced the move on its website on Friday, although the transfer fee was not disclosed. However, multiple British media outlets reported that Maatsen joined Villa in a deal worth £37.5 million (approximately $47.4 million or €44.3 million).
The 22-year-old left-back recently gained valuable experience on loan at Borussia Dortmund, where he featured in the Champions League final against Real Madrid at Wembley earlier this month. Maatsen is currently representing the Netherlands at Euro 2024 in Germany, having been called up as a replacement for the injured Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong.
Maatsen becomes the second player to join Villa manager Unai Emery’s squad during the pre-season transfer window, following the arrival of forward Lewis Dobbin from Everton. The Villans are gearing up for Champions League football next season after securing a fourth-place finish in the Premier League last term.
During his time at Dortmund, Maatsen made 16 appearances in the Bundesliga and seven in the Champions League, including a goal in the quarterfinal victory over Atletico Madrid. He also contributed to Chelsea’s Premier League campaign last season, making 12 appearances. Prior to his time at Chelsea, Maatsen had loan spells with Charlton, Coventry, and Burnley.
With this signing, Aston Villa continues to strengthen their squad in preparation for the challenges of competing in the Premier League and the Champions League next season.
