Borussia Dortmund hand Chelsea wantaway star January exit route amid Mauricio Pochettino call

Mauricio Pochettino's decision to drop Ian Maatsen from the Chelsea side for today's Premier League clash with Luton Town places further doubt over his future at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues are set for a busy winter transfer window this year after a disappointing first half of the season. Improvement in both boxes is a top priority next month, but sales will be required to accommodate the spending.

Maatsen is only player that is almost certain to be attracting interest in January. The versatile defender hasn't featured anywhere near as much as expected under Pochettino with only three starts.

After turning down the chance to return to Burnley on a permanent deal in the summer, the Dutchman will be keen to explore potential deals next month. And according to reports in the Netherlands, Borussia Dortmund have entered talks with Chelsea to sign him.

Voetbal International have claimed that the Bundesliga side have expressed an interest in Maatsen and have already opened negotiations. Maatsen is said to be open on the move, with Dortmund currently fifth.

Earlier this season, Pochettino discussed Maatsen's development in west London and admitted he had struggled since pre-season. «Young players sometimes they can impress you in pre-season but you need to give them time after to relax. Sometimes they struggle,» Pochettino said.

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«He’s in our squad and a great kid. He’s got great quality and can play in different positions but it’s about giving him time. he came from Burnley last season in the Championship. To perform at Chelsea, with all respect, is not the