Ajax and Chelsea have begun formal talks regarding the possible signing of Jorrel Hato, a 19-year-old defender who has emerged as a top summer target for the west London team.
According to people familiar with the talks, Chelsea is now in the lead to sign Hato, according to Caught Offside. Although no agreement has been reached yet, negotiations are still going well, and the contract is anticipated to be worth about €55 million.
The Dutch defender is also admired by Liverpool, but it is believed that they are giving talks with Bournemouth priority for Milos Kerkez, who has been identified as a more imminent left-back option. Chelsea, who are trying to bolster their defense on the left and in the center, now have an opportunity.
Hato is appealing because of his versatility in his role. In crucial Eredivisie and European games, he has displayed maturity above his years at Ajax by playing both as a left-back and a center defender.
Jorrel Hato eyed by Chelsea as €50m transfer
The club is still assessing the futures of players like Benoît Badiashile, Levi Colwill, and Ben Chilwell; thus, Enzo Maresca’s immediate alternatives are a mix of seasoned center-backs and full-backs.
Unlike other rumored targets like Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace and Dean Huijsen of Bournemouth, both of whom are traditional center halves, Hato has adaptability that might make him a unique asset in Maresca’s evolving style.
There is minimal possibility Chelsea would sign a number of elite defenders during the summer given their current roster and Financial Fair Play concerns. Hato thus raises the question of whether he is a top aim to sign or a backup in case others are unavailable. Or is he a two-role, cost-effective signing with a longer-term vision?
Chelsea’s attempt to get Hato should be closely watched as the transfer window approaches and important choices must be made soon. If all goes according to plan, the Dutchman will be among the first to arrive at Stamford Bridge this summer.
The Blues’ strategic goal in the market is to acquire players who can contribute right away and go on to become top-tier players, and his addition would support both the defense and the team’s long-term goals.
