Report: Liverpool in talks for defender Van Dijk adores | OneFootball

Liverpool in Direct Talks for Jorrel Hato as Van Dijk’s Endorsement Adds Weight

Quansah Exit Sparks Defensive Search

Liverpool’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be more eventful than expected, particularly in defence. As Jarell Quansah edges closer to a move to Bayer Leverkusen, the Reds are already making proactive strides in identifying his replacement. While Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi remains a top target due to his Premier League experience and homegrown status, journalist Duncan Castles has revealed that Liverpool are in “direct conversations” with Ajax over 19-year-old Jorrel Hato.

Speaking on The Transfers Podcast, Castles reported that Ajax are “open to selling” and aware of the discussions between the clubs. Hato is attracting serious interest, with Chelsea and Arsenal also said to be monitoring the Dutch defender. However, Liverpool may have a crucial edge in the form of Virgil van Dijk.

Van Dijk’s Approval Carries Weight

Daily Mail reporter Lewis Steele confirmed on his YouTube channel that Hato is “definitely on the list” at Anfield and revealed Van Dijk “absolutely adores” his young compatriot. That glowing endorsement from the Liverpool captain should not be taken lightly. If anyone knows what it takes to thrive in the Reds’ defensive line, it’s Van Dijk.

Photo: IMAGO

Not Just a Back-Up Option

While Guehi might still be the priority due to his Premier League pedigree, Hato isn’t just a consolation prize. He offers a different profile: younger, technically polished, and already battle-tested in European competition.

If Liverpool can move decisively, they might just steal a march on their domestic rivals – and in doing so, secure a defender Van Dijk not only rates, but reveres.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this link to Jorrel Hato feels like a forward-thinking masterstroke. The loss of Quansah would undoubtedly sting, particularly after his breakout 2023–24 campaign, but replacing him with someone of Hato’s pedigree and versatility could soften the blow.

What stands out is the number of senior appearances Hato has already made for Ajax – 111 matches by 19 is almost unheard of, and speaks volumes about his maturity. Combine that with a sky-high pass completion rate and elite aerial metrics, and it’s easy to see why Van Dijk is such a big fan. His endorsement will resonate deeply with supporters and probably with the recruitment team as well.

There’s also a clear sense that Hato would suit Arne Slot’s system, especially with the focus on technical ball progression and positional flexibility. A left-footed option who can play centrally, tuck into midfield or shift wide – that’s a modern defender tailor-made for elite football.

It’s worth noting that beating Arsenal and Chelsea to Hato would also send a strong message: Liverpool are still one of the most attractive projects in Europe, even amidst change. If this deal progresses, fans will be rightly excited. This could be one for the present and the future.