Chelsea eye £60m Jorrel Hato: Versatile Ajax defender returns to Blues’ radar | OneFootball

Chelsea have reopened talks for Ajax defender Jorrel Hato as they look to add a versatile left-sided option to their squad this summer.

The 19-year-old is back on the Blues’ radar, with sources indicating that discussions have taken place over a potential move.

Hato, who can operate as a centre-back or a left-back, is being considered as part of a wider reshuffle at Stamford Bridge, where exits for Ben Chilwell and Renato Veiga are expected in the coming weeks.

Arsenal were previously linked with the Dutch youngster but are now on the verge of finalising a deal for Valencia’s Cristhian Mosquera, which has lessened their urgency in that area.

The Gunners had kept tabs on Hato for months, but the emergence of Mosquera as a primary target – and the speed of recent negotiations – have shifted their attention decisively.

That has created a clear opening for Chelsea, who admire Hato’s profile and view him as a long-term option for both full-back and central defence under manager Enzo Maresca.

Hato, crowned Eredivisie’s Talent of the Year last season, made 50 appearances for Ajax and has already earned caps with the Netherlands national team.

Despite being under contract until 2028, Ajax are prepared to listen to offers, though they are quoting a steep price tag of £60 million.

Chelsea are hoping to negotiate a deal closer to £40m, which remains more in line with their valuation.

No formal offer has yet been submitted, but Chelsea are understood to be laying the groundwork for a move, with the player’s camp open to a switch.

The Blues are looking to improve depth behind Marc Cucurella. Internal cover from Malo Gusto and Reece James has proved unsustainable due to injuries and positional mismatches.

Levi Colwill is also capable of playing on the left but prefers a central role, and the club want a more natural fit for that flank.

Meanwhile, Villarreal have approached Chelsea over a move for Axel Disasi, who is surplus to requirements and was not included in the squad for the Club World Cup.

With Hato now the leading name on Chelsea’s list following Real Madrid’s capture of Dean Huijsen, the club could move quickly to secure the Ajax prodigy before rivals circle again.