Report: Liverpool line up future star in defensive summer shake-up | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Transfer Charge Continues: Direct Talks with Jorrel Hato Signal Long-Term Vision

Liverpool may be fresh off a dominant Premier League title win, but head coach Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes are wasting no time in reshaping the squad for long-term success. With Jeremie Frimpong secured as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s successor and Florian Wirtz undergoing a medical ahead of his Anfield arrival, the Reds have made it abundantly clear that evolution, not complacency, is the plan.

Now, according to Duncan Castles on The Transfers Podcast, Liverpool have turned their focus to Dutch starlet Jorrel Hato, with “direct conversations” already underway involving the 19-year-old defender and Ajax.

Jorrel Hato: ‘Generational Talent’ on Liverpool’s Radar

Hato, who can play both centre-back and left-back, was a standout performer for Ajax during a turbulent two-season spell. He registered 50 appearances in 2024/25, chipping in 3 goals and 6 assists, following up on a 46-game campaign in 2023/24.

The Dutchman, crowned Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year, has already attracted attention from Premier League heavyweights. “There have been direct conversations between Liverpool and Hato,” Castles confirmed, noting that “talks are taking place with the knowledge of Ajax, who are open to selling the player.”

Photo: IMAGO

Interestingly, Castles also remarked, “I think top European clubs missed an opportunity last summer when Ajax were struggling… Hato could have been picked up far cheaper.” That oversight may now cost interested parties such as Arsenal and Chelsea, who have also reportedly held discussions.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will be buzzing with how this summer is shaping up. It’s not just the calibre of the names linked – it’s the type of players being targeted. Jorrel Hato, at just 19, already shows the maturity and technical quality you want in a modern defender. The fact that he played 50 games last season speaks volumes about his durability and Ajax’s faith in him. If he can handle that pressure in the Eredivisie, you fancy he could step up quickly in England.