Chelsea have now identified an "exceptional" defender as a priority summer target after holding internal talks, according to a report.
Blues planning to sign two defenders this summer
The Blues still have everything to play for as the Premier League season approaches its conclusion, with the final-day trip to Nottingham Forest set to be crucial in the race for the top five, given that Nuno's side, Aston Villa and Manchester City are breathing down their necks.
Barring the 2-0 loss at Newcastle United, Enzo Maresca's side have performed well during the run-in, and the manager has been pleased with the progress Levi Colwill has made, despite admitting he may need to bring in more experienced players this summer.
When questioned about the prospect of adding experience to his squad this summer, much like Jurgen Klopp did by signing Virgil van Dijk and Alisson for Liverpool, Maresca said: "For sure, if you want to close the gap with these kind of clubs then, you have to do things."
As such, a range of centre-back targets have been identified ahead of the summer, and it is clear the manager is looking to blend youth and experience.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea are also stepping up their pursuit of Ajax's Jorrel Hato, with the defender now considered a priority target following internal discussions about their summer transfer plans.
There is a feeling that a fee of £37.8m - £42m could be enough to get a deal done, so a move for Hato would not break the bank, and he is now rapidly moving up the Blues' shortlist.
Ajax Amsterdam's Jorrel Hato celebrates after the match
The likes of Liverpool, AC Milan and Arsenal could provide competition for the 19-year-old's signature, but the west Londoners are looking to move swiftly to ensure they remain in the lead.
Hato could be "exceptional" signing for the Blues
The report states that Chelsea are looking to bring in two centre-backs this summer, and it is little wonder the youngster is now one of their favoured options, given the level of some of his performances for Ajax since breaking into the team at a young age.
Football scout Ben Mattinson has been left particularly impressed by the teenager in the past, stating on X: "Hato is an exceptional athlete for his age whilst being a technical player who can carry through the lines."
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca celebrates after the match Related
[Chelsea looking to sign "composed" defender who Maresca thinks is "perfect"](https://www.footballfancast.com/chelsea-eyeing-move-for-ben-nelson-enzo-maresca-perfect/ "Chelsea looking to sign "composed" defender who Maresca thinks is "perfect"")
The Blues have set their sights on a centre-back, with Enzo Maresca believed to be a keen admirer.
Not only that, but the Rotterdam-born defender is an assured passer of the ball, which could make him a good fit for Maresca, ranking in the top 1% for his pass-completion rate per 90 over the past year, when compared to other full-backs.
Indeed, Hato is capable of playing at left-back, having featured there predominantly during the 2024-25 campaign, but he has also featured at centre-back throughout his career, and his versatility would be an added bonus for the Blues.