Borussia Dortmund are preparing their opening bid to secure the permanent signing of Chelsea fullback Ian Maatsen.

Maatsen joined Dortmund on a loan deal in January after agreeing to extend his contract at Chelsea until 2027 and include a £35m release clause.

The Dutch international had a phenomenal six months in Germany, hitting the ground running and quickly becoming one of the clubs key players in their run to the UEFA Champions League final.

Dortmund are said to be preparing an initial bid of around £25m, hoping that Chelsea’s dire financial situation and Maatsen’s desire to stay will help secure a cheaper deal.

🟡⚫️ Borussia Dortmund initial proposal for Ian Maatsen will be around €25m, in order to start talks with Chelsea.

Release clause is £35m, clubs expected to discuss in the next days.

Maatsen, BVB priority but they need different price or will consider alternatives. pic.twitter.com/4FGaP1Opvy

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 6, 2024

Photo: Twitter @FabrizioRomano