Arsenal have stepped up their efforts to sign Jorrel Hato from Ajax, with the defender’s agent present in London amid intensified talks over a summer move.
The Gunners are set to meet the player’s representatives this week, with a face-to-face meeting reportedly scheduled for Tuesday. The club plan to present a long-term contract offer as they aim to wrap up a deal ahead of pre-season.
Sources close to the situation say that previous discussions between Arsenal and Hato’s camp have been positive, and there is growing belief within the club that the Dutch international is open to the move.
Hato, still only 19, is viewed as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe. He has already made over 100 senior appearances for Ajax and can play both as a centre-back and at left-back, making him a highly versatile option for Mikel Arteta.
With Kieran Tierney having left permanently and uncertainty surrounding Oleksandr Zinchenko’s future, Arsenal are looking to reinforce the left side of their defence. Hato has now emerged as their leading candidate for the role.
Arsenal have tracked the teenager for more than two years, and their interest has only grown since his recent breakthrough into the Dutch national team. He is admired for his composure on the ball, tactical maturity and physical presence.
While Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool are also monitoring the situation, Arsenal appear to be in pole position. Hato is believed to view the Emirates as the ideal next step in his career, particularly under a manager like Arteta, who has a strong record of nurturing young defenders.
Ajax recently tied the defender down to a new contract, but reports suggest they would consider a serious offer in the region of €50 million. Arsenal are eager to avoid a drawn-out bidding war and hope to secure a swift agreement.
With pre-season approaching, the club are determined to finalise their key business early. Bringing in Hato would represent a major coup and further strengthen the youth-driven rebuild at the Emirates.
If talks go to plan this week, Arsenal may soon land one of the most highly rated defenders in European football.