Jorrel Hato only joined Chelsea from Ajax in the summer, but it looks like there is already a possibility of him returning to his former club.
Marc Cucurella is Chelsea’s first-choice left-back and is having another solid season in defence.
Peter Crouch recently named Cucurella in his Premier League Team of the Season so far, so he is clearly getting recognition for his performances.
Marc Cucurella’s fitness in doubt 👀
Do Chelsea need another left-back in January?
Marc Cucurella playing for Chelsea
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His form is largely why Hato has not received too many opportunities at Stamford Bridge since arriving.
Jorrel Hato playing Ajax against Lazio in the Europa League.
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Jorrel Hato could still become a starter at Chelsea
According to De Telegraaf, Hato is Ajax’s No.1 target for the left-back position, with the Dutch giants eyeing a potential loan deal in January.
It remains to be seen whether Chelsea allow Hato to go out on loan or not, but whatever happens, he still has a future in west London.
There is no reason why Hato cannot eventually secure a spot in Chelsea’s starting XI. The 19-year-old is a talented defender who is capable of playing at left-back or centre-back. At some point down the line, the club will find use for him.
SCENARIO: You are one of Chelsea’s sporting directors and Todd Boehly has given you £60m to spend in January. Who are you signing?
Your potential shortlist could include:
Kobbie Mainoo
Mike Maignan
Marc Guehi
Todd Boehly and Paul Winstanley during Chelsea and Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.
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Cucurella has not ruled out an exit in the near future, making it clear that he will not stay in London forever. The Spaniard leaving could open a pathway into the first team for Hato.
Of course, with Cucurella being arguably the best left-back in the Premier League, Chelsea fans will not want to see Hato replace him yet.
Jorrel Hato of Chelsea gestures
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Jorrel Hato’s stats at Chelsea this season
Looking at Hato’s numbers in full, he has only made four appearances in the English top flight. Only two of those were starts.
In the Champions League, the Dutch youngster has also made two starts. Most of his game time has come in the Carabao Cup after playing the full 90 minutes in each of Chelsea’s three matches.
Hato is yet to score a goal or provide an assist for his new club. All in all, if he personally wanted a loan, it would not be hard to understand why.
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