Jorrel Hato has made it clear he wants to join Chelsea, as negotiations between the Premier League side and Ajax continue over a deal for the highly-rated Dutch defender.
The 18-year-old is viewed as a top defensive priority for Enzo Maresca, and while no agreement has yet been reached, sources close to the talks say Hato is ready for the switch to Stamford Bridge.
Why Chelsea Are Pushing for Hato
Chelsea are actively looking to reinforce their left-sided defensive options, with doubts surrounding the long-term futures of both Levi Colwill and Ben Chilwell.
Hato fits the profile Maresca wants: calm in possession, strong in the press, and tactically flexible. The Blues believe he could offer immediate depth and long-term upside in a back three or four.
“We’re looking for versatility and leadership — Hato offers both,” said a Chelsea analyst. — FootballPlace.co.uk
Jorrel Hato – Key Stats (2024/25)
| Competition | Apps | Pass Accuracy | Tackles + Int | Clearances |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eredivisie | 31 | 91.2% | 2.8 | 3.1 |
| Europa League | 6 | 89.7% | 2.3 | 2.6 |
What’s Holding Up the Deal?
Sources suggest Ajax are still negotiating over the fee structure, with Chelsea preferring a staggered deal with performance-based add-ons. Ajax, however, want a higher guaranteed sum, closer to €35m.
Despite this, talks are active and progressing, with both sides hopeful a breakthrough can be reached in the coming days.
Analyst Verdict: A Player for Chelsea’s Future — and Now
Hato isn’t just a signing for depth. He’s a top-level talent who could force his way into the first team within months. Chelsea’s move signals a clear intent to invest in the next generation under Maresca’s more possession-based system.
If they can close the deal quickly, it could go down as one of the smartest moves of the window.
Key Insights
- Jorrel Hato wants a move to Chelsea this summer
- Talks with Ajax are still ongoing, with no final agreement yet
- Ajax want a higher fixed fee; Chelsea prefer a performance-based deal
- Hato would offer depth at left (centre)-back under Enzo Maresca
- The 18-year-old played 37 games for Ajax last season across all comps
What’s Next for Chelsea and Hato?
With the player fully on board and Ajax still at the table, Chelsea’s challenge is to get the structure right. With Hato viewed as a future starter — and interest from other clubs rising — time may be of the essence.
Should Chelsea pay Ajax’s asking price to secure Hato now?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 18 Jul 2025 11:20
We need him! Cucu cant play 60 games a year, and he's young! He fits our scouting and he's definitely talented! last season he was at his best when he played as a left-back for Ajax, but he can play as a CB as well.
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