Jorrel Hato: Arsenal leading transfer race for Ajax defensive prospect wanted by Man United | OneFootball

Manchester United are reportedly very keen on signing Ajax defensive sensation Jorrel Hato but are facing intense competition for his signature from Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal.

Strengthening the defensive department is believed to be one of United’s priorities ahead of the summer transfer window – a need that was made even more urgent following Raphael Varane’s confirmation that he’ll leave Old Trafford in the next few days.

There is also uncertainty over the future of other stars like Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans, whose contract expires soon.

United have been heavily linked to players like Jarrad Branthwaite, Leny Yoro, Jean-Clair Todibo, Marc Guehi, Edmond Tapsoba, Ronald Araujo and Max Kilman, just to mention a few names.

According to HITC, Ajax’s Hato is another defender the Red Devils are keeping close tabs on.

This is not the first time United have been mentioned as an interested party in the 18-year-old. The club’s admiration for him was revealed in a report covered by The Peoples Person back in March but since then, links appeared to have gone cold.

Graeme Bailey now says that Erik ten Hag’s side – who are no strangers to doing deals with Ajax – have done their work on Hato.

“Hato is a player that United admire and have been aware of for a long time.”

“18-year-old Hato is widely regarded as one of the best defensive prospects in Europe and was recently awarded one of the most prestigious honours that Ajax can bestow on a player as he was recently named the winner of the Marco van Basten award – which the club’s coaches award to the biggest talent from within the squad.”

“And despite signing a new deal with Ajax only months ago, it is believed he could depart the Amsterdam giants following their failure to qualify for Europe.”

Bailey adds, “Whilst, United have shown an interest – including watching him in Ajax’s final game of the season against Almere. However, HITC understands that Arsenal are very much in pole position for Hato – who is understood to be keen on making the move to the Emirates and are ready to make a bid to land him.”

The Gunners failed in their efforts to lire him to London in January but they’ll table a fresh bid this summer.

It remains to be seen whether United rival them for the teenager, although he’s not the only one on their list.

This season, Hato has made 33 Eredivisie appearances for Ajax. He has played 46 games across all competitions – very impressive for a youngster still yet to reach the peak of their powers.

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