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Aston Villa have rejected Manchester United's opening bid for Ian Maatsen, but the Dutch full-back could still move to Old Trafford before the transfer window closes.
According to Football365, United have made an initial approach for Maatsen, only for Villa to turn down the proposal. The offer has not been accepted at Villa Park, although the player's situation remains one to watch closely in the final stages of the market.
Maatsen has yet to agree a new deal with Villa, a factor that has placed his future under renewed scrutiny. With no fresh agreement in place, United are understood to retain a strong chance of completing a transfer before the deadline. The expectation around the situation is that the defender will likely join Manchester United before the end of the window, despite Villa's stance on the first bid.
For Villa, rejecting the opening offer allows the club to maintain control of negotiations and seek improved terms if United return with a revised proposal. The Midlands side are not believed to have accepted United's valuation at this stage, and any deal would require further talks between the clubs.
For United, Maatsen represents a late opportunity to strengthen at full-back. Their first bid has not succeeded, but the rejection does not appear to have ended their interest. With time running short, the focus will now be on whether United submit a new offer that can persuade Villa to sell.
Maatsen's contract situation means the coming days could be decisive, with his future at Villa Park still unresolved as the transfer deadline approaches.
Written by Ketan Patel
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