Borussia Dortmund are reportedly facing a blow in their efforts to secure the signing of Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen.
Having failed to feature prominently under Mauricio Pochettino during the first half of the season, Maatsen was allowed to make the switch to Dortmund on loan.
The temporary transfer proved to be an overwhelming success for all concerned with the Dutchman going on to make 22 starts and one substitute outing in all competitions.
Seven of those starts came in the Champions League as Dortmund reached the final before losing to Real Madrid on Saturday evening.
Maatsen made a costly mistake for the second goal, all but confirming Los Blancos' victory, yet that will not change Dortmund's mind when it comes to trying to sign the left-sided player on a permanent basis.
© Reuters
Release clause not in Dortmund's favour
When Chelsea negotiated the loan agreement with Dortmund, it became well-documented that there was a £35m buy option for Dortmund at the end of the season.
Should that be activated, Maatsen would become one of the most expensive left-backs in history, yet discussions are expected to take place in due course given Chelsea's need and desire to generate funds.
However, according to the Daily Mail, any club is able to activate that clause in question, rather than just the Bundesliga giants.
That leaves Maatsen open to offers ahead of the summer transfer window officially opening later this month, teams aware Chelsea will be prepared to entertain talks as soon as possible.
The report reiterates that Dortmund remain the favourites and are eager to retain Maatsen's services, yet it is now plausible they could be edged out for his signature.
© Reuters
Who benefits most from this clause?
Chelsea would naturally be the big winners from this scenario if any club agrees to pay the £35m clause and Maatsen agrees to join the team in question.
Nevertheless, there is now the potential for a prolonged bidding war that would not benefit the Premier League side, who need to boost their position with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.
Admirers of Maatsen may be prepared to offer substantially less than the clause for that reason, including Dortmund who will be aware that a quick deal will benefit their Chelsea counterparts.
Much may come down to Chelsea's willingness to compromise given the inevitability of a huge profit being made, with only a fee in the region of £100,000 being spent on Maatsen when he joined from PSV Eindhoven in 2018.
Darren Plant
