Chelsea have officially opened negotiations with Dutch powerhouse Ajax for the transfer of highly rated teenage defender Jorrel Hato. The 18-year-old left-sided player is considered one of the brightest young prospects in European football and has drawn attention from several elite clubs across the continent.
Among the keen suitors, Chelsea have now taken the lead in the pursuit of Hato, ahead of Premier League rivals Liverpool. Ajax are reportedly demanding a fee in the region of €55 million for the young defender, a price that reflects his considerable promise and rising profile.
Hato has rapidly established himself as one of the standout young defenders in the Netherlands, impressing observers with his composure, tactical intelligence, and technical quality well beyond his years. Capable of playing both as a traditional left-back and as a left-sided central defender, the Dutchman offers tactical versatility and fits the mold of a modern defender.
His ability to read the game, combined with his pace and comfort on the ball, makes him an ideal fit for clubs looking to add depth and future potential to their defensive lines. Hato’s performances at both senior and youth levels for Ajax have made him one of the most sought-after young players in Europe.
Chelsea’s interest in securing Hato’s services aligns with their broader vision under new manager Enzo Maresca. The club is actively looking to reshape its squad by integrating young, dynamic talents who can grow into key first-team contributors over time. Hato’s profile fits perfectly within this philosophy, and Chelsea’s scouting department has been tracking his progress for quite some time. The Blues are reportedly serious about securing the Dutch defender and view him as a potential long-term asset for the team.
Negotiations between the two clubs are in the early stages, but discussions are expected to gather momentum in the coming weeks. While Ajax have set a hefty valuation for their young star, Chelsea appear willing to meet those demands, though they will likely seek to negotiate terms such as payment installments, bonuses, and performance-based clauses. Ajax, known for being savvy operators in the transfer market, are expected to drive a hard bargain for their prized talent.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have also expressed significant interest in Hato, making this a competitive race. However, Chelsea’s swift move to initiate talks signals their determination to outmaneuver their rivals and secure one of Europe’s most promising young defenders.
Should a deal be finalized, a transfer to Chelsea would represent a major step up for Hato, giving him the opportunity to test himself in the more physically demanding Premier League. Working under a tactically astute coach like Maresca and training alongside experienced professionals could greatly benefit his development and unlock his full potential. Chelsea fans will now be eagerly awaiting further developments as the club continues to build for the future.
