Chelsea confirm Hato signing and remain in talks over deal for forward

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of highly-rated 19-year-old defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax.

He arrives as the eighth addition to Enzo Maresca’s squad, in what has been another busy window for the Blues.

Hato has long been regarded as a highly-talented prospect, having captained Ajax at the age of just 17. The defender has been previously linked with clubs such as Arsenal and Liverpool. However, it is Chelsea that have now secured his services.

The versatile defender is strong on the ball and is comfortable playing at both centre-back and left-back.

He joins the Club World Cup champions in a deal worth £37.5 million. The 19-year-old has signed a seven-year contract, which will keep him at the club until 2032.

“I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here,” Hato said. “I thought a lot about my future and wanted to take the next step in my career. Chelsea is the best place for me to do that so I’m very happy.”

Whilst Chelsea were competing at the FIFA Club World Cup this summer, Hato was captaining the Netherlands side at the Under-21 Euros. The defender has also been called up to the Dutch senior side. He has earned six senior caps to date.

Hato was named as the best young player in the Eredivise last season. The Dutchman was recognised with the Johann Cruyff Talent of the Year award. 

A previous winner of the award is Dutch international teammate Xavi Simons. The attacker is another player that Chelsea are trying to sign as their transfer activity is not concluded yet.

The Blues are still trying to reach an agreement with RB Leipzig to land the forward. Simons wants a move to the Premier League and Leipzig are open to selling the 22-year-old. Chelsea will hope to finalise a deal for Simons before the Premier League starts in just under two weeks time.