OneFootball
Dan Burke·23 July 2025
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Dan Burke·23 July 2025
Chelsea have officially opened talks with Ajax over the signing of highly rated Dutch defender Jorrel Hato, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The 19-year-old is said to be keen on a move to Stamford Bridge and has already indicated he is ready to accept personal terms with the Premier League club.
The negotiations between Chelsea and Ajax are now underway, with Romano noting that the two clubs enjoy a strong working relationship—potentially smoothing the path for a deal.
Hato, who has impressed with his maturity and versatility at centre-back for Ajax, has been on the radar of several top European clubs. However, Chelsea appear to be leading the race after making formal contact with the Dutch giants.
The teenager's openness to the move is a significant boost for the Blues, who continue to prioritise the recruitment of top young talent as part of their long-term project under co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley.
Romano’s report suggests there is optimism on all sides that a deal can be reached in the coming days, although the transfer fee and structure are still being discussed.
Should the move go through, Hato would become the latest addition to Chelsea’s defensive ranks, following a transfer strategy that has focused on securing Europe’s most promising prospects.
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