Liverpool Have ‘Held Talks’ to Sign 19-year-old Dutch Star- Journalist | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Dutch Prodigy Jorrel Hato Amid Defensive Overhaul

Liverpool are not standing still this summer. After lifting the Premier League title in Arne Slot’s first season, the Reds are already retooling their defence for another title push. According to The Transfers Podcast and journalist Duncan Castles, Liverpool have opened talks with Ajax sensation Jorrel Hato, signalling their intent to build a backline that blends promise with purpose.

“There have been direct conversations between Liverpool and Hato over joining the Premier League champions this summer,” Castles revealed. These talks are said to have taken place with the full knowledge and consent of Ajax, who are “open to selling the player.”

Hato’s name has been on the lips of top European clubs for some time, but Liverpool’s interest comes at a decisive moment. With Jarell Quansah close to a £34 million switch to Bayer Leverkusen and Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konaté facing uncertain futures, Slot’s side are preparing for multiple exits.

Photo: IMAGO

Defensive Puzzle Taking Shape

The addition of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth looks imminent, as the club reshapes its full-back options. Andy Robertson could depart for Atletico Madrid, and Kostas Tsimikas is heavily linked with either Nottingham Forest or Olympiacos.

But it’s at centre-back where Liverpool’s structure may be undergoing the biggest shift. Konaté’s contract runs out in 2026, and unless a renewal is agreed, a sale could happen. Quansah’s pending move leaves the club needing reinforcements in both quality and depth.

In Hato, Liverpool may have found the ideal solution. Capable of playing both centre-back and left-back, the 19-year-old is already a Netherlands international and made 31 Eredivisie appearances last season, contributing six assists. He’s under contract until 2028, so prising him away from Ajax won’t be cheap.

“They want to reinforce at centre-back,” Castles said of Liverpool. “But probably they cannot say to Hato: ‘You come in and you’re the starting centre-back’ — but he’ll get some time in that position.”

This reflects the club’s strategy of gradual integration, rather than rushing a young talent into the spotlight. Hato’s ability to fill in at left-back could also allow him to rotate with Kerkez, offering Slot flexibility in formation and style.

Gravenberch Link Could Be Key

Hato’s visit to Anfield last season did not go unnoticed, sparking fan speculation. It was later confirmed he had attended as a guest of Ryan Gravenberch, his former Ajax teammate. That relationship, coupled with the strong Dutch presence under Arne Slot, could play a vital role in convincing Hato to make the move.

Gravenberch is understood to have spoken highly of Liverpool’s project, and the club’s current atmosphere appears well-suited for the growth of young, technical players. Slot, also Dutch, offers a continuity in culture and philosophy that could ease Hato’s transition.

Photo: IMAGO

What Comes Next?

While discussions are said to be progressing, this deal is far from straightforward. As Castles notes, “It will not be a cheap deal if they’re going to make that happen.” But Liverpool are clearly not deterred by the financial outlay. With their strategy focused on youth, versatility, and tactical intelligence, Hato ticks all the right boxes.

If a fee can be agreed, Hato would arrive at Anfield with over 100 senior games to his name, international experience, and the tools to become a fixture in one of Europe’s top sides.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

It’s hard not to get excited about this one. Jorrel Hato isn’t just a top prospect, he’s the kind of player that fits Liverpool’s identity like a glove. Young, composed on the ball, tactically adaptable, and experienced beyond his years. Slot knows exactly the type of football he wants, and Hato could become a pivotal part of that future.

Given the likely departures of Quansah and possibly Gomez or Konaté, the need for reinforcements is real. But Hato doesn’t just fill a gap – he raises the ceiling. His ability to play both centre-back and left-back gives Slot massive flexibility, especially if Kerkez and Hato can alternate on that left flank.

The connection with Gravenberch is a big plus too. The Dutch community at Anfield is growing, and it’s not just about language or comfort, but style and synergy. Watching this team grow together under Slot is becoming a joy, and Hato feels like another building block in a long-term plan.

Get this done, and fans can start dreaming of a defence ready to dominate for years to come.