Chelsea Eye Versatile Ajax Star Jorrel Hato in Post-Club World Cup Move

Chelsea’s summer transfer business is already in full swing. After snapping up Liam Delap and Mamadou Sarr early in the window, the Blues are now setting their sights on Ajax’s highly-rated teenager, Jorrel Hato.

According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea have been in touch with Ajax over the past few days about a possible move for Hato, though any serious approach is likely to happen only after the Club World Cup. The 19-year-old defender is reportedly available for around €50 million (£42 million) — a hefty price tag, but not exactly eye-watering in today’s market. 

Hato is attracting interest from more than just Chelsea. Liverpool, Arsenal, and Newcastle United are all said to be keeping close tabs on the Dutchman, so Chelsea certainly won’t have a clear path to his signature. What makes Hato such an attractive prospect is his versatility. While he’s primarily a centre-back, he spent most of last season playing at left-back — and looked right at home in both roles. For a player who doesn’t turn 20 until next year, racking up over 100 senior appearances for Ajax is no small feat. 

However, Chelsea’s immediate focus seems to be finalizing deals for goalkeeper Mike Maignan and winger Jamie Gittens. But Hato remains firmly on their radar. Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano recently weighed in on the situation on his YouTube channel, saying, “Jorrel Hato is for sure in the list of Liverpool and Chelsea. Both clubs appreciate the player and have been monitoring him. It’s not an easy negotiation with Ajax — he’s a very important player for them — but he’s one of the candidates for these two clubs now they are expected to miss on their target Dean Huijsen.” 

Do Chelsea need Hato?

Interestingly, Chelsea aren’t exactly short on centre-backs. The squad already boasts the likes of Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Axel Disasi, Benoît Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, and now Mamadou Sarr. But the left side of the defence is where Hato could really come into play. 

Chelsea ended last season with just one natural left-back after sending Ben Chilwell and Renato Veiga out on loan to Crystal Palace and Juventus respectively. Marc Cucurella was the only recognized option — and given his inconsistent form, the club could definitely use an upgrade. With his ability to slot in both centrally and out wide, Hato looks like a smart, long-term option for Enzo Maresca’s rebuild. 

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