West Ham will face stiff competition if they are to sign Ian Maatsen as competition for Emerson Palmieri this January.
It has been made clear that West Ham want to strengthen by bringing in players in two key positions in the coming window – a striker and a full back. While both Emerson and Coufal are both having excellent seasons in the respective positions, there is a lack of cover for both of them.
Unsurprisingly, the defensive flanks was an area that Moyes was keen to add to in the Summer but the money had to be spent elsewhere. Now, he could look to revisit one of his previous targets in the hopes it will help with rotation in his side’s non-stop schedule.
Chelsea’s Ian Maatsen is not having the best time under Mauricio Potchettino. After having a brilliant season for Burnley last year, and being key to their promotion to the Premier League, Maatsen turned down the chance to sign permanently for the Clarets. Instead, he hoped to earn his place in the Blues’ starting XI but, unfortunately, he has only played 130 Premier League minutes this term.
Thanks to Chelsea’s ongoing battle against FFP regulations, the club are aiming to get rid of players like Maatsen and this could work in West Ham’s favour, according to Rudy Galetti. “Chelsea is working to lighten the squad in view of the January transfer window due to Financial Fair Play. Among the names also out is Ian Maatsen,” he told Area Napoli.
However, the Irons will not acquire his signature without a challenge, with “two other English clubs” eyeing up a move for the 21 year old. Not to mention European giants “Napoli, who have asked for information on the feasibility of the operation.”
“At the moment there are no contacts advanced but Maatsen is also liked for his young age. A profile that the Italian scouts like.”
Much to the dismay of David Moyes, it seems like bringing the Dutch left back to the London Stadium will be a real struggle. Luckily for him, our Irons are starting to develop a knack for pulling off signings against all odds.
Players like Lucas Paqueta and Mohammed Kudus could easily be playing for the top clubs around Europe, yet West Ham were able to convince both of them to join. If Maatsen is the player the gaffer wants, then there is every chance the club can make it happen.
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