Chelsea have already decided what they are going to do with Jorrel Hato in the January transfer window.
The defender has not started many matches for Chelsea this season and recently had a game to forget in the Champions League.
Hato had a difficult outing against Qarabag, being responsible for the two goals that his side conceded in their 2-2 draw.
Even before that, Hato was already being linked with an exit and a possible return to the Eredivisie.
Jorrel Hato playing for Chelsea
Photo by TOFIK BABAYEV/AFP via Getty Images
Jorrel Hato won’t be replaced in January
Although things are not going to plan for Hato at the moment, the 19-year-old is not expected to leave Stamford Bridge in the January transfer window.
When asked if Chelsea could replace Hato when the market reopens in a Q&A on football.london, journalist Bobby Vincent replied: “There are no plans to replace Hato in January. Chelsea signed him on a long-term contract and he has only been at the club a few months.
“Granted, it has not been an ideal start for the Dutchman, but they will not rush into any rash decisions when it comes to a player they have high hopes for.”
Hato has made just two starts in the Premier League this term, but it was always going to be difficult for him to break into the first team regardless of form.
Chelsea brought Hato in to compete against Marc Cucurella, who is arguably the best left-back in England.
Chelsea defender Jorrel Hato in rain
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Chelsea right to retain faith in Jorrel Hato
Chelsea need to continue backing Hato. A couple of bad performances do not make the Dutchman a terrible player.
Hato still has a lot of potential and can offer much, with the former Ajax man capable of playing at left-back and centre-back. There have also been moments in some games where he has looked really bright.
Against Brighton & Hove Albion, Hato was perhaps Chelsea’s only positive as he stepped into the left centre-back role.
Yes, Hato looked really shaky in the draw with Qarabag. He was not assured and seemed to be lacking a bit of confidence. Usually, though, the Netherlands international is quite composed.
According to FBref, his pass completion rate has been at around 89% over the past year, putting him in the 98th percentile among full-backs. It is way too early for Chelsea and Enzo Maresca to give up on Hato.