Chelsea lead €55m race for Ajax star with Liverpool monitoring closely | OneFootball

Chelsea Open Talks Over €55m Ajax Starlet Hato Amid Liverpool Interest

Chelsea step up pursuit of Hato amid defensive priorities

Chelsea have initiated formal discussions with Ajax over the potential signing of Jorrel Hato, with the 19-year-old defender emerging as a key summer target for the west London club.

Sources close to the negotiations have informed Caught Offside that Chelsea are currently leading the race for Hato’s signature. The deal is expected to be valued around €55 million, and while there is currently no agreement in place, talks are ongoing and positive.

Photo IMAGO

Liverpool are also admirers of the Dutch defender, although they are understood to be prioritising discussions with Bournemouth for Milos Kerkez, who has been earmarked as a more immediate left-back solution. That has left the door open for Chelsea, who are looking to strengthen both centrally and on the left side of their back line.

Versatility key to Chelsea’s interest

Hato’s appeal lies in his positional flexibility. He has shown maturity beyond his years at Ajax, operating both as a central defender and a left-back in high-pressure Eredivisie and European fixtures.

Chelsea’s manager Enzo Maresca is expected to oversee a reshaping of the defensive line, with several departures possible and a strong desire to inject younger, more adaptable profiles into the squad.

Photo: IMAGO

While Arsenal have previously monitored Hato, interest from the Emirates has cooled, largely due to the emergence of Myles Lewis-Skelly, allowing Chelsea and Liverpool to emerge as the frontrunners.

Liverpool monitoring but focused elsewhere

While Liverpool remain interested in Hato, they are not currently active in talks with Ajax, according to Caught Offside. The Reds had shown strong intent in the pursuit of Dean Huijsen prior to his move to Real Madrid and are now considered more likely to finalise a deal for Kerkez, leaving their Hato interest dormant for now.

Still, Liverpool could re-enter the race should their full-back or centre-back recruitment plans change.

Pathway to first team likely stronger at Stamford Bridge

Despite questions over Chelsea’s project continuity and their long-term planning, the club are confident that Hato would receive significant minutes in the first team, with Maresca expected to prioritise defensive organisation and youth integration.

By contrast, Liverpool’s defensive depth, under new manager Arne Slot, could limit immediate opportunities for Hato, which may factor into his decision.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Jorrel Hato isn’t just another prospect, he’s one of the brightest defensive talents in Europe and fits exactly what Chelsea have been crying out for – composure, versatility and a high ceiling.

Yes, there’s always the argument about whether Chelsea’s project is the right environment for a young player to flourish, but under Enzo Maresca, it feels different. There’s an emphasis on tactical clarity and building a core around promising youth. Hato can be central to that.

The best part? He plays both centrally and out wide. That gives cover and flexibility, especially with uncertainty around Chelsea’s existing defensive options. If they secure him for €55 million, it might look steep now, but in two years it could be a bargain if he develops as expected.