Jorrel Hato has admitted he is in no rush to leave Ajax as he continues to be linked with a move to Liverpool
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Jorrel Hato of the Netherlands speaks to the media in a post match interview during the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025 Group Stage match between Netherlands and Denmark
Jorrel Hato of the Netherlands speaks to the media in a post match interview during the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025 Group Stage match between Netherlands and Denmark
(Image: 2025 UEFA)
Jorrel Hato has insisted he is in no rush to leave Ajax despite ongoing speculation about his future. The 19-year-old has been linked with a move to Liverpool in recent months as the Reds look to strengthen their defence.
Arne Slot’s side are in talks to sign Milos Kerkez from AFC Bournemouth, while they have already signed Jeremie Frimpong to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold.
But there could be further movement in their defensive ranks, with Andy Robertson wanted by Atletico Madrid and Kostas Tsimikas on the radar of several clubs including newly-promoted Premier League side Leeds United. At least one of the pair is expected to move on following Kerkez’s arrival.
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Meanwhile, Liverpool could also find themselves in the market for a new centre-back with Jarell Quansah attracting interest from Bayer Leverkusen and Joe Gomez continuing to be linked with a move away after coming close to departing for Newcastle United last summer.
Ibrahima Konate also faces an uncertain future as he enters the final year of his contract at Anfield, with the France international reportedly on the radar of Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
Should the Reds lose both left-backs and any of their centre-backs, they will need to strengthen their defence further.
With Hato equally adept at playing in either position, he could come under consideration should Liverpool seek additional defensive recruits.
But the 19-year-old, while dreaming big, insists he is not looking too far into the future and feels at home at Ajax despite the ongoing transfer speculation.
"The smartest thing is to look at it per season. That's what I do," the Netherlands international told club channels. "Of course you want to achieve things in the end: the Champions League, a World Cup and a European Championship.
"I still have plenty of time. I don't think: 'I absolutely have to win the Champions League in two years'.
"In the Dutch league you have to show how good you are against the big clubs. Ultimately I have to continue to develop the things I am already good at, so that it becomes top.
“How do I describe my time at Ajax? Ajax is home for me. I just feel at home here."
Hato is close friends with Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, and was previously pictured at Anfield for the Reds’ 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town back in January.
Buthe played down any talk of an Ajax departure at the time, telling reporters: "I read it all (transfer rumours). But I also know that not everything was right. For my development it's best that I stay at Ajax now.
“I was invited by Ryan Gravenberch. But I didn't speak to a director there. Liverpool played well and the atmosphere in the stadium was good, but there is no more to say.”
Should Hato stay put at Ajax next season, he will play under former Liverpool assistant coach John Heitinga - who recently took over as manager - and alongside both Reds goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros who is set to join the Eredivisie giants on loan.