Chelsea Interested In Signing Versatile 19 Year Old Defender On Liverpool’s Radar: A Good Option For The Blues? | OneFootball

Chelsea’s new project continues to point in the same direction, focusing on youth, versatility and room for growth. Since the current board took control, the London club have preferred to invest in developing talent that can fit into the long term rather than turning to the market for established names.

This approach, although criticised for its lack of immediate results, reflects a clear idea. And within that context, the interest in Jorrel Hato makes perfect sense. The Ajax defender, who is also on Liverpool’s radar, represents everything Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea are looking for.

Chelsea Interested In Signing 19 Year Old Jorrel Hato

Ben Jacobs, a reliable journalist on transfer market reports, has revealed that Chelsea continue to closely monitor Hato. The young Dutch defender can play both as a centre-back and left-back, and it is this versatility that appeals most at Stamford Bridge.

According to CaughtOffside, talks have already taken place with Ajax to find out about his situation, although the Dutch club would prefer not to sell. However, there is a growing feeling that this summer could mark his departure, with a release clause set at around €55 million. Liverpool have also shown interest, but Chelsea seem to be more active.

ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – NOVEMBER 19:Jorrel Hato of Netherlands in action during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A3 match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Netherlands at Bilino Polje stadium on November 19, 2024 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

Will He Be A Good Option For The Blues?

Hato would fit naturally into the 4-2-3-1 formation that Maresca wants to implement. His ability to carry the ball out of defence, his defensive reading of the game and his tactical intelligence allow him to adapt to both the left-back and centre-back positions. Unlike the more erratic Badiashile or the inconsistent Chalobah, Hato shows a maturity which is not common at 19 years age.

Additionally, his ability to interpret spaces and impose himself without losing solidity makes him an ideal alternative for a system that demands functional full-backs and centre-backs who know how to build from the back. Hato’s left foot provides balance, something that is highly valued in a defence that seeks to initiate plays from the back.

Can Chelsea close this deal? There are obstacles. Ajax do not want to sell, and competition from Liverpool could inflate the price. But Chelsea have shown persistence when they fall in love with a player, and if the sporting director considers him key, they will make the effort.

The London club offers immediate playing time and prominence, something that is more appealing than Slot’s constant rotation. But there is also a different interpretation: wouldn’t it be smarter to sign a more experienced defender? Hato’s talent is clear, but a team that has lacked defensive stability for some time in key moments may need certainties rather than promises to shine next season.