Arsenal step up talks to beat rivals in race for Ajax defender | OneFootball

Arsenal Push Forward in Race to Sign Ajax Star Jorrel Hato

Talks set as Arsenal make decisive move for Hato

Arsenal have taken a significant step in their pursuit of Jorrel Hato, with club officials scheduled to meet the player’s representatives this week, Football Transfers reports. The Gunners are aiming to wrap up a deal for the 19-year-old Ajax defender before the start of pre-season, with a face-to-face meeting on Tuesday expected to include the presentation of a long-term contract offer.

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Sources suggest that prior dialogue has been “positive”, and there is growing confidence within the Emirates that Hato’s future lies in North London. Arsenal are keen to avoid the risk of a bidding war, particularly with Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool also monitoring the situation closely.

Ajax starlet viewed as ideal Arteta profile

Hato, valued at around €50 million, has already made over 100 senior appearances for Ajax, despite only turning 19 earlier this year. His ability to operate both as a centre-back and left-back has added to his appeal, with Mikel Arteta said to be especially impressed by the Dutch international’s tactical intelligence and physical maturity.

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Arsenal’s interest is partly driven by the need to reinforce the left side of their defence. The permanent departure of Kieran Tierney and potential exit of Oleksandr Zinchenko has elevated Hato to the top of the club’s defensive shortlist.

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Pre-season urgency underlines intent

With the Gunners due to begin pre-season in a matter of weeks, there is an internal desire to ensure any incoming business is conducted swiftly. Securing Hato now would allow Arteta time to integrate the youngster into the squad and avoid disruption during the latter stages of the window.

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Though competition exists, Arsenal’s long-standing interest and their ability to offer regular playing time in a structured, possession-based system could prove decisive.

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For Arsenal fans, the chase for Jorrel Hato represents more than just another transfer. It is a reflection of the club’s long-term vision and Arteta’s relentless push for structural balance and defensive depth.

Hato’s profile is perfect: young, experienced beyond his years, and versatile enough to solve problems both centrally and out wide. With over 100 games already played for Ajax and senior international experience under his belt, this isn’t a typical teenage project — this is a player ready to contribute immediately.

Arsenal’s willingness to move early and decisively speaks volumes. This is a club that has learned from previous windows. Gone are the days of dragging talks into late August. If Tuesday’s meeting goes well, Hato could become one of the headline additions of the summer, and one that fits seamlessly into Arteta’s evolving blueprint.

There’s also something energising about the calibre of clubs also in the frame. Beating the likes of Chelsea and Dortmund to his signature would not only strengthen Arsenal’s defence but reinforce their reputation as the ideal destination for Europe’s brightest talents.

Fans will be hoping this is more than just progress — they’ll want a done deal. And soon.