Burnley reenter race for Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen

Burnley are working on a deal to sign Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen on loan for the season, according to Sacha Tavolieri.

The 21-year-old spent last season on loan with the Clarets in the Championship and played a pivotal role in helping them secure their ascent to the Premier League. 

Maatsen helped Burnley keep 11 cleansheets in 39 appearances, bagging four goals and six assists as they climbed to the top flight in record-breaking fashion.

Maatsen joined Chelsea’s pre-season preparations this summer and impressed playing in more advanced positions on the field, but he has yet to start any of Chelsea’s PL games thus far.

He made substitute appearances for the Blues against Liverpool and Luton Town but did not have time to make his mark.

Chelsea vice-captain Ben Chilwell is ahead of him in the pecking order, and the Englishman has made it difficult for Maatsen to get a look in.

The two-time Champions League winners could consider a loan deal for the Dutch youth international that will allow him to gain Premier League experience, especially if they do not find any suitors for Marc Cucurella. 

The Spaniard has been the subject of interest from Manchester United, who are looking for an emergency left-back to cover for injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

United have Cucurella on their shortlist but have not made a move for him, forcing Chelsea to stick with their very expensive full-back signing from last summer.

Burnley are desperate to avoid the drop back into the Championship and have splashed money to secure talents to keep them up.

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They have already made 11 signings this summer but still need a left-back to shore up their defence and have turned to Maatsen.

It remains to be seen if a deal can be struck with Chelsea. Manager Mauricio Pochettino might want to keep him around after his impressive pre-season showings.