Maatsen officially departs Dortmund via Villa signing
As had been expected for quite some time, Chelsea FC left-back Ian Maatsen's brief time with Borussia Dortmund has come to an end. English Champions' league representatives Aston Villa acquired the 22-year-old late Friday evening via the reported €40 million release clause in the Dutch defender's contract. Maatsen proved an invigorating factor on the BVB left-flank, scoring three goals and registering two assists in 23 appearances across all competitions for "die Schwarzgelben".
Dortmund remain on the hunt for additional assistance at Maatsen's position. After a highly disappointing first year following his move from Gladbach, Algerian left-back Ramy Bensebaini has been ordered to complete a rigorous offseason training regimen. The 29-year-old is due back in BVB training camp so as to give the club a chance to appraise his progress. It stands to reason that Dortmund will also be signing another left-back to compete with Bensebaini for the starting role.