Chelsea Set to ‘Open Talks’ with £42m Dean Huijsen Alternative | OneFootball

Chelsea Turn to Ajax Star Jorrel Hato After Huijsen Blow

Focus Shifts Quickly at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea’s summer transfer plans are beginning to take shape — and after losing out on a key target, attentions are now firmly fixed on Ajax’s Jorrel Hato. According to TEAMtalk, “Chelsea are now seriously considering opening talks with Ajax for Jorrel Hato after losing out on one of their favoured defensive targets.”

That target, Dean Huijsen, has officially signed for Real Madrid — a move that forced Chelsea to re-evaluate their shortlist. Internal discussions at Stamford Bridge have now accelerated, with Hato emerging as a clear priority in their plan to reinforce the backline.

Photo: IMAGO

Rising Reputation Across Europe

Hato, still only 19, is among the most sought-after young centre-backs in Europe. The Dutchman has become a regular in the Ajax XI and is widely praised for his maturity, composure in possession, and positional discipline. His talent has drawn attention from clubs across the continent. TEAMtalk adds, “Chelsea, Liverpool, AC Milan and Arsenal – and also Real Madrid before they landed Huijsen – [are] all monitoring his development.”

The asking price is clear. Ajax are said to be looking for €45–50m (£37.8–42m), a figure that places Hato firmly in the ‘elite prospect’ bracket. For a club like Chelsea — eager to rejuvenate and reinforce its defensive structure — this is a fee they are seemingly willing to negotiate.

Liverpool Remain in the Picture

Chelsea aren’t alone. Liverpool have maintained an interest in Hato since the early stages of this recruitment cycle. Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano recently stated: “Jorrel Hato, the talented defender from Ajax, for sure he’s a player on the list of Chelsea and Liverpool in the Premier League.”

He continued: “Both clubs are monitoring the player, for sure he’s in the lists… Jorrel Hato is also in the list at Chelsea and at Liverpool as a potential name in case they can’t get Huijsen.”

With Huijsen now out of reach, both Premier League clubs appear set to test Ajax’s resolve.

Photo: IMAGO

Defensive Rebuild Underway

TEAMtalk reports that Chelsea “plan to sign two centre-backs this summer,” with Hato “quickly climbing their shortlist.” This aligns with other ongoing squad reshuffles, including the possible permanent departure of Axel Disasi to Aston Villa.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are keeping options open across several positions. Former Red Glen Johnson has urged the club to pursue Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella, while the club also remain linked with Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku. But Hato’s age, profile and ceiling make him particularly suited to the long-term rebuilds underway at both Stamford Bridge and Anfield.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

The pursuit of Jorrel Hato represents exactly the sort of recruitment Chelsea should be prioritising — young, technically gifted, and with vast potential. Losing out on Huijsen may have stung, but reacting quickly to secure another top-tier target would mark smart business, especially as the defence continues to evolve under a new regime.

There’s also an opportunity here. With Disasi potentially leaving and uncertainty around Benoît Badiashile’s consistency, a pairing of Hato and Levi Colwill could offer balance and longevity. At €45–50m, it’s a significant outlay — but one that reflects the going rate for Europe’s best young defenders.