Chelsea Close In on Jorrel Hato as Ajax Wonderkid Pushes for Move

Chelsea are nearing a deal to sign Ajax defender Jorrel Hato after agreeing personal terms with the 19-year-old, who has formally requested to leave the Dutch club, The Blues are negotiating a fee in the €40-60 million range, with Ajax initially demanding €60 million (£52m) but Chelsea hoping to settle closer to €40 million (£34m)—a benchmark based on Jurrien Timber’s transfer to Arsenal. Hato, a versatile left-footed defender capable of playing center-back or left-back, has already captained Ajax and earned six caps for the Netherlands, making him a priority for Enzo Maresca’s defensive rebuild.

While Chelsea lead the race, Arsenal and Liverpool had previously shown interest, though the Gunners’ recent signing of Cristhian Mosquera reduces their urgency, Hato’s technical prowess and ball-carrying ability align with Chelsea’s style, and his arrival could displace Benoît Badiashile or provide competition for Marc Cucurella. Ajax, aware of Hato’s expiring contract in 2026, may compromise on fee structure to avoid losing him for free later, an agreement could be finalized within days, with Hato potentially joining Chelsea’s pre-season tour if completed this week.
Sources: Fabrizio Romano, The Athletic, Goal.