Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Ajax starlet Jorrel Hato, with advanced negotiations now underway, according to a fresh update from Team Talk. The Blues have already tabled a £44 million offer, although Ajax are holding out for closer to £52 million.
Hato is one of the most sought-after young defenders in Europe and has already made clear his intention to leave the Eredivisie side this summer. As previously reported by Football Place, Hato is open to joining Chelsea and has already informed Ajax of his desire to move.
Why Chelsea Want Jorrel Hato – Now
New boss Enzo Maresca has identified the versatile defender as a perfect tactical fit. With questions lingering over Levi Colwill’s future and Ben Chilwell’s injury record, Chelsea are looking for a left-footed defender capable of operating both as a left-back and centre-back.
“Chelsea believe Hato can become one of the Premier League’s best left-sided defenders,” said a source close to the club. — FootballPlace.co.uk
Ajax Holding Firm on Valuation
Despite Hato’s desire to leave, Ajax are unwilling to drop their price. The Dutch giants are demanding around £52 million, and negotiations are now centred around bonus clauses and the payment structure.
Chelsea, for their part, are optimistic that a deal can be struck — and the player’s willingness to move is seen as a key factor tipping the deal in their favour.
Hato’s 2024/25 Season in Numbers
| Stat (2024/25) | Jorrel Hato |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 42 |
| Minutes Played | 3,780 |
| Tackles Won | 62 |
| Blocks | 24 |
| Interceptions | 58 |
| Pass Completion | 89% |
Analyst Verdict
Jorrel Hato would bring both positional flexibility and elite defensive metrics to Stamford Bridge. At just 18 years old, he's shown maturity beyond his years in the Eredivisie, and could seamlessly slot into Maresca’s build-from-the-back philosophy.
Key Takeaways
- Chelsea are now in advanced talks with Ajax over Jorrel Hato
- A £44m bid is on the table, but Ajax want closer to £52m
- Hato is pushing for the move and has told Ajax he wants out
- Chelsea believe he can evolve into a Premier League star under Maresca
What's Next?
Chelsea are expected to return with an improved structure, potentially rising to Ajax’s valuation through performance-related bonuses. The club want to finalise the deal before the start of the Premier League season, and the player’s insistence on leaving could accelerate an agreement.
Should Chelsea push to meet Ajax’s demands or move on?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 27 Jul 2025 16:04
Started as a CB but evolved as a left-back! What a season he had as a left-back for Ajax, I didnt like him as a CB but maybe he was too young for that position and yes, to short as well.
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