Chelsea have been given a major boost in their pursuit of Jorrel Hato, with Ajax now willing to accept a fee well below the original €50m valuation, according to De Telegraaf.
Talks between the two clubs are ongoing, but a deal has yet to be struck. Chelsea's opening offer was €40 million, and while personal terms with Hato were quickly agreed, Ajax initially pushed for €55–60 million — a fee the Blues were unwilling to match.
Now, in a key shift, De Telegraaf report that Ajax would accept a total package in the region of €43–45 million, including potential bonuses.
Chelsea’s Patience Could Pay Off — But Ajax Need the Money
The Eredivisie giants appear increasingly open to compromise. While Ajax haven’t formally accepted Chelsea’s current €41m bid, the Amsterdam club are now considering slightly higher offers that remain well below their earlier expectations.
“Ajax seem willing to accept a package between €43m and €45m, bonuses included. Given the club’s financial concerns, they can’t afford to lose this deal.” — De Telegraaf (Print Edition)
De Telegraaf also note that Ajax’s financial position is fragile, and the club cannot risk Chelsea walking away — especially as there is no guarantee another club will offer more than €40m later this summer.
Why Chelsea Are Pushing for Hato Now
Hato is viewed as a key priority by new manager Enzo Maresca, who is determined to bring in a left-footed defender capable of playing both at left-back and centre-half in his hybrid system.
The 19-year-old Dutchman starred for Ajax last season under Francesco Farioli, primarily operating as a left-back in a more possession-based shape. Chelsea see him as the ideal long-term replacement for Ben Chilwell, who is expected to be sold.
With Marc Cucurella the only senior left-back currently available, Chelsea’s need for Hato is immediate — and the price is now within reach.
Hato’s 2024/25 Season – Key Stats
| Stat (2024/25 – Eredivisie) | Jorrel Hato |
|---|---|
| Age | 19 |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Clearances per Game | 2.8 |
| Pass Accuracy | 89% |
*Stats from Eredivisie 2024/25 season*
Analyst Verdict: Hato Deal Too Smart to Let Slip
For Chelsea, this is the moment to strike. Hato has the profile to start now while still offering huge long-term upside. At €43–45m, the fee is well below market value for a Premier League-ready, multi-role defender.
Ajax know they may not get this opportunity again — and Chelsea know the player wants the move.
Maresca wants to build his back line around mobile, technically gifted defenders, Hato fits perfectly.
Key Insights
- Ajax will now accept a fee between €43–45m for Jorrel Hato, per De Telegraaf.
- Chelsea’s current bid is €41m — short, but not far off.
- Hato has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea.
- Ajax need funds and may not get a better offer later.
- Enzo Maresca sees Hato as key to his tactical rebuild.
What’s Next in Hato–Chelsea Talks?
Discussions remain active. Chelsea are expected to return with an improved bid, possibly including bonuses or clauses that meet Ajax’s new €43–45m range.
If Ajax accept, a medical could follow within days. Chelsea want the deal done quickly, especially with Chilwell’s exit looming and pre-season under way.
The ball is now firmly in Chelsea’s court.
Should Chelsea push the deal through — or risk losing Jorrel Hato altogether? Have your say below.
2 Comments (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 30 Jul 2025 10:20
Ajax will accept, simple as that. They've financial issues and there's no other club that would knock on the door with the same offer that Chelsea made.
By JamesLove 30 Jul 2025 10:23
It’s a done deal - congrats
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