Chelsea Are Set To Rival Liverpool For This Eredivisie Full-Back: What Will He Add To Maresca’s Side? | OneFootball

In a recent segment on Youtube, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Chelsea are set to rival Liverpool for Ajax full-back Jorrel Hato. Romano said,

“Let me start with Jorrel Hato, this talented defender from Ajax. For sure, he’s a player on the list of Chelsea and Liverpool in the Premier League.

“So both clubs are monitoring the player, and for sure he’s on the list.”

Hato’s Impressive Rise In Dutch Football This Season

Hato has caught the eye at times with his performances on the left side of Ajax’s defence this season. The talented teenager has registered three goals and secured six assists in 48 matches for the Dutch outfit during this campaign in various competitions.

The 19-year-old has proven his worth on the left flank as he is averaging 1.9 tackles, 0.7 interceptions, 1.9 clearances, 0.6 shots and 0.6 key passes per 90 minutes in the Dutch Eredivisie. He has distributed the ball accurately after completing 90.2% of his attempted passes in the top tier of Dutch football (stats via whoscored).

Hato is under contract at Ajax until the summer of 2028 which could make it difficult for the Blues to sign him on a cut-price deal this off-season.

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)

What Will Hato Add To Chelsea Boss Enzo Maresca’s Team?

Hato is a tough-tackling full-back, who can time his challenges well to secure possession back for his team on the defensive end of the field. He usually clears his lines when required and can create the odd chance for his teammates from the left flank.

The Dutch defender can even strike the ball well from long range. He is primarily a left-back but can also serve as a central defender if told to do so.

However, only time will tell whether Hato can make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League. Still, Chelsea would be wise to move in for him this summer.

Hato would no doubt add more quality to Enzo Maresca’s backline in the long run. He is good enough to help the Blues compete across all fronts in the coming years. Therefore, the West London club should focus on getting a deal done for him in this upcoming transfer period.