Real Madrid line up SHOCK alternative to Alphonso Davies
Cameron Smith
- 11 Sept 2023 18:40 BST
- 4 min read
Real Madrid have identified Chelsea’s Ian Maatsen as a possible alternative to Alphonso Davies, according to sensational reports in Spain.
Davies, 22, is seen as Los Blancos’ first-choice left-back target, as reported by multiple outlets, but Maatsen has been touted as another potential arrival if Bayern tie Davies down to a new deal.
The Canadian’s current contract in Bavaria runs until 2025, but he has rejected Bayern’s first offer and the German side could look to offload Davies next summer if he refuses to sign a new contract.
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That has alerted Real Madrid, but Carlo Ancelotti’s side are also monitoring Maatsen as a potential alternative, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.
The Spanish giants signed Fran Garcia for just €5m from Rayo Vallecano this summer, and he has started all four La Liga games for Real so far this season.
However, another left-back reinforcement is reportedly being looked at for 2023.
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Maatsen to Real Madrid?
While Davies is their priority target, Maatsen is also being looked at after he rejected a permanent Deadline Day transfer back to Burnley.
The Dutchman spent the 2022-23 campaign on loan at Turf Moor, but is keen to prove himself back at Chelsea. The Blues had agreed a deal with Burnley, but Maatsen himself opted to stay put at Stamford Bridge.
However, despite impressing in the front four during pre-season, rather than his conventional left-back role, Maatsen has not started a single Premier League game for Chelsea so far this campaign.
The 21-year-old has come on as a substitute in three of the Blues’ four league fixtures during the 2023-24 season thus far, but he is yet to dislodge Levi Colwill at left-back or Ben Chilwell at left wing.
He featured in attacking midfield in Chelsea’s 2-1 win over AFC Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup, while Marc Cucurella started at left-back.
Real Madrid had also previously looked at fellow Chelsea star Reece James, although interest has cooled lately. He is now the Blues’ club captain, meaning a move to the Santiago Bernabeu is unlikely.
