Liverpool have reportedly found their long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk, according to a new transfer update ahead of the summer window.
The Dutchman is an iconic Anfield figure who will hopefully still be around for a few more years, but he does turn 34 this summer.
Van Dijk also hasn’t signed a contract extension at Liverpool yet, with his current deal coming perilously close to expiring in June 2025.
It is essential that the Reds look at potential long-term replacements for the legendary centre-back even if he does stay put, and it looks as though Jorrel Hato is high up on the list of possible successors.
That’s according to Football Insider, who report that the Ajax teenager has been “identified” to fill the eventual void left by Van Dijk.
Hato is “considered one of the best young defenders in Europe”, with Real Madrid, Chelsea and Arsenal all mentioned as rivals to Liverpool for his signature.
A player with incredible potential
Hato is a player who has a massive future in the game, having already become such an influential player for Ajax at the age of only 18.
Capable of excelling at both centre-back and left-back, the Netherlands international has made 104 appearances for the Dutch giants, while John van ‘t Schip has said of him:
“We don’t have to do a lot because he is an exemplary professional. Of course, he has fun with the boys and that’s something that needs to happen because that makes sure you train happily. But he is also a very serious guy in the sense that he trains well, he takes care of himself. Many should see him as an example, especially the players in the youth academy.”
Hopefully, Van Dijk signs a contract extension and remains a vital part of Liverpool’s plan for a few more years, and if the Reds could bring in Hato this summer to learn alongside his compatriot, it could be a perfect piece of business.
The Ajax man is someone who can become a world-class defender over time, so the Merseysiders should do all they can to bring him in ahead of next season.