Liverpool should steer cleer of a deal for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi and instead push to sign Ajax ace Jorrel Hato.
The Reds are set to part ways with academy graduate Jarrel Quansah, after Bayer Leverkusen agreed to pay a total package worth in the region of £35 million. It means there is a space in the squad for a new defender, and Liverpool have been linked with a long-time target in Palace's Guehi.
But there is a better option available for boss Arne Slot and his entourage, and Liverpool should do whatever they can to get the deal over the line.
Liverpool Must Target Hato Transfer
The versatile defender is an ideal addition for Slot
Reports emerged last week indicating that Liverpool had held direct initial talks over a potential transfer for Ajax's Hato. The Eredivisie runners-up are in no rush to part ways with their talented defender and are expected to demand a "very high" fee, but it is nonetheless a deal worth doing.
Journalist Lewis Steele has also revealed that Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk has approved a move for Hato, having played alongside the 19-year-old for the Netherlands national team.
Dubbed "world-class", Hato has been a regular figure in the Ajax first-team, having graduated from the club's renowned youth academy. He made 50 senior appearances last term in all competitions, scoring three and assisting six in the process.
Jorrel Hato's 2024/25 Eredivisie statistics
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Tackles Won per 90
Interceptions per 90
Clearances per 90
Liverpool have already signed Milos Kerkez, but both Andrew Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas have been linked with moves elsewhere this summer, and their exits would leave the club short at left-back.
But Hato is a versatile defender capable of playing a role at both centre-back and left-back - both positions which Liverpool could benefit from having additional depth in.
It is thought that Ajax are prepared to accept offers in the region of £40 million for Hato, and this would be a more affordable deal than if Liverpool were to pursue Guehi, as Crystal Palace are demanding closer to the £70 million mark.
The Dutchman is a strong fit from both a financial and sporting perspective, and the Merseyside outfit would be wise to complete a deal as early as possible, with Arsenal also eyeing a move for the player.
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Arne Slot Related
Sky Sports: 'Superstar' Will Only Join Liverpool on One Condition
The Reds are keen to sign a defender after selling Jarrel Quansah.
Statistics courtesy of FBRef.com - Correct as of 22/06/2025