Chelsea fans hail ‘huge’ deal as club secretly trigger clause in youngster’s contract to fight off Barcelona interest
CHELSEA have triggered a secret clause in Ian Maatsen's contract, according to reports.
The club have taken the decision to extend the 21-year-old's deal by one year, tying him down to 2025.
Reports from the claim Maatsen has rejected two contract offers in recent weeks and Chelsea have therefore activated the extension clause.
This comes after supposed interest from Barcelona with the Catalan giants considering making a bid for him in January.
Maatsen's longer contract could force Xavi's side to pay more for the Dutch left-back.
He spent last season on loan at Burnley and the newly-promoted side saw a loan offer with an obligation to buy worth £31.5million accepted over the summer.
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However, Maatsen rejected the transfer as he hoped to force his way into Mauricio Pochettino's side.
But he has played just 83 minutes in the Premier League this season amid competition from Ben Chilwell, Levi Colwill and Marc Cucurella.
Consequently, Maatsen is reportedly considering his future at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea fans are delighted the club has taken up the option to add a year to his contract.
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One said: "Huge, hopefully we can tie him down on a long-term deal soon."
Another added: "Smart move."
More wondered: "Does this mean he will get game time or are they trying to protect his value and sell?"