EXCLUSIVE: Chelsea reach agreement to sign Ajax defender Jorrel Hato

 

CHELSEA ACT FAST TO AGREE TERMS WITH HATO - BUT FACE HUGE AJAX DEMAND TO LAND WONDERKID DEFENDER

Chelsea are making significant strides in their pursuit of Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, with negotiations now entering the final stages after an agreement on personal terms was reached with the player.

The 19-year-old Dutch sensation has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising young centre-backs, and Chelsea have moved swiftly to position themselves at the front of the queue for his signature. Talks between the two clubs are ongoing, with the proposed fee hovering around €40 million (£35m/$47m).

While a formal agreement with Ajax has yet to be finalised, there is growing optimism on all sides that a deal will be struck soon. Chelsea see Hato as a long-term investment — someone who can compete for a first-team role while also continuing to develop under the club’s new project focused on youth and versatility.

Hato, who captained Ajax at times last season despite his young age, is admired for his composure on the ball, intelligence in defensive positioning, and ability to play both as a centre-back and left-back. His style fits Chelsea’s evolving tactical approach, and his versatility would add depth to a defensive unit that struggled for consistency last season.

Should the deal go through, Hato would become one of the headline arrivals of Chelsea’s summer transfer window — a clear signal of their intent to build a squad for both present and future success.