Barcelona want to sign Chelsea defender for free?

Barcelona are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen on a free transfer next summer.

The Dutchman spent the previous campaign on loan with Burnley where he made a huge impression in the Championship.

The Blues were open to selling him to the Clarets before the deadline last summer, but he refused to accept personal terms.

Maatsen could now walk out on a Bosman transfer. He will enter the final six months of his contract at the turn of the year.

This would make him eligible to negotiate a pre-contract with foreign clubs.

Sport claim that Barcelona are likely to take advantage of the situation and will seek to sign him on a free transfer next summer.

Meanwhile, the Blues are still hopeful of committing Maatsen to a new long-term deal, but it seems highly unlikely as of now.

The young defender has no desire to commit his future to the Blues unless he is guaranteed with a regular starting position.