Ian Maatsen to Borussia Dortmund deal triggers Chelsea transfer decision as loan rules explained

Chelsea will be forced to make a difficult decision before they can sanction Ian Maatsen's move to Borussia Dortmund. The 21-year-old defender has been heavily linked with an exit from Stamford Bridge recently after falling out of favour under Mauricio Pochettino.

Maatsen was granted a starring role for the Blues in pre-season, often slotting in at centre-midfield or on the right-wing. The Dutchman impressed and he looked set to be a key player for Chelsea this season – but after 20 games into the new Premier League season, he's played just 199 minutes.

While Maatsen's opportunities may not have suggested it, the Chelsea manager is a big admirer. In an interview with the club's official website over the summer, Pochettino said: «I am so happy with him. He is a player that can play in different positions.

»He has quality, he understands the game, and he is such a clever player. So far, he is in my plan, yes. I am so pleased with him, as I’ve said, because of his attitude, commitment and his understanding of the game."

Even with Ben Chilwell out of action due to injury, the former Tottenham boss has preferred Levi Colwill at left-back. Maatsen now faces an incredibly uncertain future in west London, with Borussia Dortmund reportedly eager to secure his signature.

According to Fabrizio Romano, there is a verbal agreement in place which sees the the Blues ace join the the Bundesliga outfit on loan until the end of the season. The report states that Maatsen accepted Dortmund's offer 'days ago' and he will now travel to Germany on Tuesday before completing a medical on Wednesday.

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