The Athletic reports that Chelsea is close to finalizing a deal to capture Ajax’s talented teenage defender Jorrel Hato. Negotiations for a deal worth more than €40 million (£34.7m) are anticipated to be completed in the next few days, even if no formal agreement has been reached.
The 19-year-old Dutch international has already reached a personal agreement with Chelsea, demonstrating his readiness to transfer to Stamford Bridge. In January 2024, Hato was being considered by Arsenal, but he decided to sign a new five-year contract with Ajax instead, securing his future there.
A lucrative move to Chelsea is imminent for the versatile young player, who has emerged as one of the best young defenders in the world. Enzo Maresca is reportedly nearing the end of negotiations with the Dutch team over a cost of about €40 million (£35 million). He wants to expand his alternatives at left-back and in central defense.
In 2023, Hato became the youngest player to lead Ajax at the age of 17. A few weeks later, he made his senior international debut. Hato is considered one of Europe’s best talents and can play both roles.
Chelsea set to sign Ajax defender Jorrel Hato
Chelsea has started negotiations with RB Leipzig about a transfer for the defender’s Netherlands colleague Xavi Simons, and they are getting closer to signing Ajax’s Jorrel Hato. Hato would be a fantastic addition to Chelsea and is the epitome of a contemporary defense. He is tactically astute, cool under duress, and serene when he has the ball.
During the summer, Chelsea has been active in the transfer market. Alongside Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Estevao Willian, and Dario Essugo, Hato would be the next addition to the team.
Chelsea will concentrate on RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons when the Hato trade is finalized. The 22-year-old is eager to join the Blues, and it’s said that negotiations are going well between the two teams. After two successful loan stints, the 22-year-old striker, who can play a variety of offensive roles, joined Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain in January for €50 million, with a potential price tag of up to €70 million.
