Chelsea in Talks with Ajax to Sign Rising Star Jorrel Hato
Chelsea Football Club have reportedly opened talks with Dutch side Ajax to sign one of Europe’s most promising defenders, Jorrel Hato, ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Following their recent Club World Cup triumph over Paris Saint-Germain, the Blues are now focused on strengthening their squad. If Chelsea finalizes the deal, Hato would add depth and youthful brilliance to Enzo Maresca’s defensive options.
🔍 Five Things to Know About Jorrel Hato
1. Already a First-Team Regular at Ajax
Jorrel Hato has been a core part of Ajax’s senior team since making his debut in 2023 at just 16 years old. By 19, he has racked up over 100 first-team appearances across all competitions. In the 2024–25 season alone, he featured in 50 matches and even wore the captain’s armband in a European fixture at just 17—becoming Ajax’s youngest captain in Europe.
2. A Versatile Defensive Talent
Primarily a centre-back, Hato can also play at left-back, offering crucial tactical flexibility. A left-footed defender, he is known for his composure under pressure, strong ball distribution, and intelligent positioning—qualities that make him ideal for modern football systems.
3. Senior Dutch International
Hato made his debut for the Netherlands national team on November 21, 2023, in a Euro qualifier against Gibraltar. Since then, he has earned multiple caps and is widely regarded as a long-term successor in the Dutch backline, with the potential to partner with legends like Virgil van Dijk.
4. On the Radar of Top Premier League Clubs
Hato has attracted interest from several Premier League giants including Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea. The Blues are currently in advanced talks with Ajax, with a reported fee ranging between €40–60 million, despite the player’s contract running until 2028.
5. Award-Winning Young Talent
Jorrel Hato has received numerous accolades for his performances. He won the Abdelhak Nouri Trophy, awarded to Ajax’s best youth player, and followed it up with the Eredivisie Talent of the Year in 2025. Experts across Europe regard him as one of the most complete young defenders in the game today.
