Arsenal - Chelsea
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Arsenal have joined Chelsea in making enquiries about highly-rated Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, as both Premier League giants step up their interest in one of Europe’s most promising young talents.
The 19-year-old Dutch international has already made 111 appearances for Ajax, scoring four goals and showcasing impressive versatility by operating both at centre-back and left-back. His consistent performances have earned him six caps for the Netherlands and a reputation as one of the continent’s top young defenders.
According to transfer expertFabrizio Romano, Chelsea were the first to approach Ajax over Hato’s availability, with Arsenal now entering the race. While talks remain in the early stages, discussions are said to be ongoing.
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Hato has previously attracted interest from Liverpool, especially during the January transfer window when he was spotted in the stands at Anfield during a 4-1 win over Ipswich Town. However, he quickly dismissed speculation of an imminent move, explaining that he was attending the match as a guest of international teammate Ryan Gravenberch.
Arsenal target Jorrel Hato
Jorrel Hato (Image credit: Getty Images)
“I am not leaving in the winter and want to finish the season at Ajax,” Hato said at the time. “I also read the reports and know that not everything is true. For my development, it is best that I stay at Ajax now.”
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Hato made his Eredivisie debut at just 16 years and 335 days old, becoming the third-youngest debutant in Ajax history after Ryan Gravenberch and Clarence Seedorf. He soon earned a call-up to the senior Netherlands squad, making his debut at 17 in a match against Gibraltar.
Dutch manager Ronald Koeman praised Hato’s rapid adaptation to international football, saying: “He had to defend Wout Weghorst and other attackers in training. I really liked that. He adapted very easily and plays with bravado.”
Arsenal and Chelsea’s interest in Hato comes as both clubs seek to strengthen their defensive options. The London rivals are also monitoring Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who is available for a reduced fee this summer with just one year left on his contract. Last summer, Palace’s £70 million valuation proved a stumbling block for potential suitors.
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