Jacob Steinberg has claimed West Ham now believe they can sign previously untouchable Chelsea star Ian Maatsen.
There has been persistent speculation that West Ham want to raid Chelsea for left-back Ian Maatsen in the summer transfer window.
West Ham are on the hunt for a new left-back with Aaron Cresswell currently away from the team amid speculation of a move to Wolves or Forest.
The Hammers signed Emerson Palmieri from Chelsea last summer. And now they are being linked with a move for young Blues left-back Ian Maatsen.
It was confirmed David Moyes is rivalling Burnley for Maatsen in this window by a reliable journalist this week.
But there was a big catch – Chelsea were only willing to let him leave on loan.
Jacob Steinberg claims West Ham now believe they can sign previously untouchable Chelsea star Ian Maatsen
That’s after new Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino publicly declared the Dutchman is in his future plans when speaking about Maatsen on the club’s official website.
Pochettino was so effusive in his praise of Maatsen it killed speculation stone dead with the player seemingly untouchable in this window.
The Athletic had previously claimed West Ham could sign Maatsen for around £20 million from London rivals Chelsea.
But the latest reports suggested a loan with no option to buy is the best the Hammers could possibly hope for.
However, that situation may well have changed according to a Guardian journalist who has strong sources at West Ham.
Jacob Steinberg claims West Ham now believe they can sign previously untouchable Chelsea star Maatsen.
‘They think they can get him on loan with an option to buy’
The reporter states the Hammers believe they will be able to get Maatsen – who shone during his spell at Burnley last season – on loan with an option to make it permanent.
“West Ham looking at a deal for Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen,” Steinberg said on social media.
“They think they can get him on loan with an option to buy.
“Maatsen impressed during pre-season and Pochettino likes him but an exit isn’t being ruled out this month.”
The big thing in West Ham’s favour here is the fact Chelsea have two hugely expensive left-backs ahead of the youngster at Stamford Bridge.
In fact the Blues who have over £100m worth of left-backs who ahead of Maatsen in the pecking order in the shape of Ben Chilwell and Marc Cucurella.
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