Chelsea defender wants to leave in January?

Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen is prepared to consider a move away from Stamford Bridge in January, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Netherlands star was on loan with Burnley last term and he helped them to secure promotion to the Premier League.

The Blues wanted to sell him back to the Clarets over the summer, but Maatsen was not keen on the proposed move.

He is now waiting for the right opportunity and reports claim that he could leave when the transfer window reopens.

Maatsen has been out-of-favour for the left-back role with Marc Cucurella and Levi Colwill preferred in recent weeks.

If his situation does not improve by January, he is prepared to pursue a new challenge during the winter transfer window.

Chelsea could also welcome his departure, considering he has no plans of renewing his contract expiring in June 2025.

His previous deal was due to conclude next summer, but the club triggered a 12-month extension clause in his contract.