Manchester United have made a late enquiry for Aston Villa defender Ian Maatsen as the club scrambles to secure a new left-back before the summer transfer window slams shut.
Can Manchester United Pry Ian Maatsen Away from Villa Before Deadline?
According to transfer journalist Pete O’Rourke, the Red Devils have contacted Villa to explore the possibility of signing the 24-year-old Dutchman.
The move comes as Michael Carrick’s side desperately seeks a long-term successor for Luke Shaw, who is now entering the final months of his contract at Old Trafford.
Maatsen joined Aston Villa from Chelsea in 2024 for a reported £37.5 million and has since developed into a reliable option under Unai Emery.
Last season, he helped Villa lift the Europa League trophy and made 23 starts across all competitions.
With Lucas Digne having departed for Paris Saint-Germain, Maatsen is now poised to become Villa’s first-choice left-back this campaign.
The Dutch international is known for his pace, technical ability, and composure in tight spaces qualities that align perfectly with Carrick’s tactical demands.
However, prising him away from Villa Park will prove difficult. Transfermarkt values Maatsen at around £26 million, and his contract runs until 2030, placing Villa in a strong negotiating position.
Furthermore, Unai Emery has already lost several key players this summer, including Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, and Ezri Konsa, with Ollie Watkins and Emiliano MartÃnez also expected to depart. The Villa boss is unlikely to sanction another high-profile exit.
With Newcastle refusing to sell primary target Lewis Hall and Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly also on United’s radar, Maatsen has emerged as a viable alternative.
Whether United will formalise their interest with a concrete bid before Tuesday’s deadline remains to be seen.
