Aston Villa and Chelsea Finalize Exciting Player Swap

Aston Villa and Chelsea are on the verge of completing a major transfer exchange, with Ian Maatsen heading to Villa Park for £37.5 million and 18-year-old Omari Kellyman moving to Stamford Bridge for £19 million.

Ian Maatsen’s Move to Aston Villa

Ian Maatsen, 22, has been a standout player during his six-month loan spell at Borussia Dortmund in the latter half of last season. Despite Dortmund’s interest in a permanent deal, they could not meet his £35 million release clause. With Dortmund shifting their focus elsewhere, Aston Villa seized the opportunity to sign the Netherlands international.

Renowned reporter David Ornstein confirmed that Villa and Chelsea agreed on a £37.5 million deal three days ago. Villa is paying above the release clause since it was only applicable to Dortmund and has since expired. Determined to secure Maatsen, Villa offered a six-year contract, moving swiftly to finalize the agreement.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Maatsen is set to undergo medical tests this weekend. Romano tweeted, “Ian Maatsen is set to undergo medical tests as a new Aston Villa player this weekend! Chelsea just gave permission to proceed with the medical at the Netherlands camp. £37.5m fee to Chelsea, player’s contract almost agreed — waiting on final details. Here we go, soon.”

As a homegrown player, the proceeds from Maatsen’s sale will be recorded as pure profit on Chelsea’s balance sheet.

Omari Kellyman to Join Chelsea

In a separate but related move, 18-year-old attacking midfielder Omari Kellyman will transfer from Aston Villa to Chelsea. Both Ornstein and Romano confirmed that Chelsea will pay £19 million for Kellyman, who has represented England at Under-19 and Under-20 levels and scored seven goals in 11 matches for Villa in the Premier League 2 during the last season.

Kellyman is versatile, capable of playing as a forward or winger, and has given his approval to the move. Talks over personal terms are ongoing, and barring any unforeseen issues, he will soon join Chelsea, effectively trading places with Maatsen.

This player exchange marks a significant step for both clubs as they strengthen their squads ahead of the new season.