Journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that Chelsea is making more of an attempt to capture Ajax defender Jorrel Hato. The Blues have set their sights on the highly regarded teenager in an attempt to strengthen their backline even more before the new season begins.
Hato, who joined Ajax’s first squad at the young age of 16, has had an incredible rise in the Eredivisie. Under former boss Francesco Farioli, the versatile defender was used across the backline last season, making 50 appearances while switching between left-back and center defense.
The Blues are expected to outperform their rivals, according to Jacobs, who writes on Talksport that the FIFA Club World Cup winners have had preliminary discussions with the Dutchman as they seek to bolster their backline this summer. His performances have caught the attention of a number of clubs, including Chelsea and Liverpool.
As a result of Marc Cucurella’s lack of cover and the anticipated departures of Ben Chilwell and Renato Veiga from Stamford Bridge, Hato, who can play a variety of positions, has reportedly risen to the top of Chelsea’s summer transfer targets in an attempt to strengthen Enzo Maresca’s left-back depth.
Chelsea must stump up an extra £20 million to meet Hato’s transfer
According to talkSPORT, the Blues are prepared to spend almost £40 million on the 19-year-old Dutchman. Hato is under contract until 2028, so that is a long way from the Eredivisie club’s £60 million valuation.
After playing 50 games for his team last year, Hato was named the Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year in Holland. At the age of 18, he became the youngest player to reach 100 games, having made his Ajax debut at the age of 16.
At 17 years and 250 days, he is the youngest captain in the history of the club and has also donned the captain’s armband. Hato is seen by Chelsea as a stand-in for Marc Cucurella. Despite being a vital member of Enzo Maresca’s team, the Spaniard runs the risk of exhaustion from playing every game.
Hato’s deal, which is valid until 2028, does not have a release clause. He wouldn’t be cheap, though. Chelsea is trying to get the Netherlands international for about £40 million, while Ajax has set an asking price of £60 million.
