Chelsea hold secret talks with 21y/o star and agree deal despite strong West Ham interest

Chelsea have activated a clause to extend Ian Maatsen's contract by another season as talks continue over his long-term contract at the club.

The 21-year-old’s contract situation is attracting suitors but Chelsea have strengthened their position to extend his deal until 2025.

The Blues have been holding talks and there has been interest also from West Ham, while he also turned down the chance to return to Burnley in the summer where he helped them gain Premier League promotion.

He's had cameo performances in the Premier League this season but the Evening Standard is reporting that Chelsea have at least increased his contract to 18 months which means teams who are interested have to into negotiations in the winter transfer window.

Barcelona were reported to be monitoring and wanted to talk him into joining them for free when his contract expired in the summer but the latest move means they will now have to engage the club if they were serious about their interest.

Maatsen's versatility has been a gift to every club he's been at with the great ability to play at left-back and also in midfield.

The 21-year-old wants to impress manager Mauricio Pochettino with the resilience of someone like Conor Gallagher who was on the cusp of leaving to fight and now making himself an undisputed starter in the team, this is something that has impressed players.

Gallagher's emergence has served as a reminder to many on the fringes that with hard work and determination they could still have a place in the team.