Ian Maatsen in action for Aston Villa, with Unai Emery in a circular inset

Ian Maatsen is in line for a new contract at Aston VillaImago

Sources: Aston Villa in advanced talks to agree Ian Maatsen deal

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Published on:

10 Sep 2026, 11:48 am

Aston Villa are advancing in talks with Ian Maatsen over a new contract at Villa Park, sources have told Football Insider.

The 24-year-old is an important part of Unai Emery's ambitious plans, and work is now being done behind the scenes to commit his long-term future to the club.

Maatsen was subject to interest from Man United during the summer transfer window, after they saw a late enqiry rejected by Aston Villa, who had no plans to sell.

Emery's side are now determined to dismiss any speculation surrounding the left-back's future, and feel he will play a key role in any success they have this season.

The Netherlands international has started all five games for Aston Villa this season, and despite a slow start in the Premier League, has impressed with his performances.

Maatsen's current contract is set to run until 2030, but work is being done to recognise his improved place in the squad and deter any interest from Man United or elsewhere.

What do Aston Villa have planned for Ian Maatsen?

Former Aston Villa scout told Football Insider before the summer window opened that the Villans were prepared to listen to offers for Maatsen as part of a summer overhaul.

However, Lucas Digne was later allowed to join Paris Saint-Germain, opening the door for Maatsen to stake his claim to a place in the starting XI under Emery.

Having impressed coaches and the manager at Aston Villa since his arrival from Chelsea in 2024, and made himself a key part of the team, he is now in line for a new contract.

Last season, Maatsen made 44 appearances across all competitions but started just 25 of those, but he will now be rewarded for his patience with an increase in playing time.

His performances have attracted high-profile interest not just from Man United, but from other clubs across Europe, and Villa are now keen to tie him down long-term.

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How close did Man United come to signing Maatsen?

Aston Villa's plans to hand Maatsen a new contract have come after a late move from Man United called into question his long-term future at Villa Park

The Red Devils were keen to take the Netherlands international on loan for the season should he have been made available, but ultimately saw their efforts blocked.

Meanwhile, Brown told Football Insider on 1 September that, while Maatsen was considered by Man United, he was never in line to make the switch to Old Trafford.

Michael Carrick's side assessed a number of options ahead of the transfer deadline, having missed out on top target Lewis Hall, which led to their enqiry over Maatsen.

However, they did not follow up their interest after reports that Aston Villa decided not to let Maatsen leave, as Emery views him as an important part of his plans for the season.

Ian Maatsen