Chelsea Agree Personal Terms with Dutch Star as Arsenal and Liverpool Miss Out

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·24 luglio 2025

Chelsea Agree Personal Terms with Dutch Star as Arsenal and Liverpool Miss Out

Chelsea have moved quickly to restructure their defensive options by reaching a verbal agreement with Ajax star Jorrel Hato, according to sources close to the deal.

The 19-year-old Dutch defender, who is comfortable playing both centrally and at left-back, has been viewed as a major prospect across Europe. Despite interest from multiple Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool, Hato has reportedly turned down alternative offers and is now prepared to sign a five-year deal with the Blues.

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Arsenal and Liverpool beaten to promising Dutchman

As per Just Arsenal Sources, Arsenal had earmarked Hato as a long-term successor to either Oleksandr Zinchenko or Jakub Kiwior. The youngster’s age profile and positional flexibility had placed him high on the Gunners’ radar. Liverpool were also said to be monitoring Hato closely, particularly as an alternative to Marc Guehi, whose valuation has proven difficult to meet.

Hato is considered stylistically well suited to both Mikel Arteta and Arne Slot’s systems due to his composure in possession, tactical intelligence, and ability to progress the ball from deep. However, both clubs now appear to have been edged out of contention. Arsenal slammed the break on Hato as the club swiveled to Cristhian Mosquera – whose arrival at the club has not been officially announced as yet, though he is believed to be in Singapore for Arsenal’s pre-season tour.

(Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Chelsea working on fee after player agrees terms

While personal terms have been agreed, a deal between Chelsea and Ajax is yet to be finalised. Ajax are reportedly demanding €60 million for the Netherlands international, though Chelsea are looking to lower that figure to around €50 million, potentially using funds raised from outgoing transfers.

According to our sources, Hato himself is encouraging Ajax to accept Chelsea’s offer, signalling his intent to make the switch to Stamford Bridge.

The move represents another statement of intent from Chelsea as they continue their squad overhaul under new management. For Liverpool, it may prompt a reassessment of their defensive priorities ahead of the new season, but it seems the Gunners are in a good place with Mosquera onboard.

Your thoughts welcome in the comments as always.

Michelle M

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