The Blues set to sign 19-year-old versatile Dutch defender for £37 million
Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Ajax defender Jorrel Hato for an initial fee of £37 million, pending approval from the Dutch club’s supervisory board. The 19-year-old is expected to sign a seven-year contract lasting until 2032 and will soon complete a medical after receiving permission to travel to west London.
A talented defensive addition
Hato is seen by Chelsea as a promising young player who can provide valuable competition in the backline. Comfortable playing both left-back and central defence, he made his senior debut for Ajax at just 16 years and 335 days old, becoming the third-youngest player ever to appear in an Eredivisie match for the club. Since then, he has amassed 75 appearances for Ajax and made his senior debut for the Netherlands in 2023.
Ajax’s decision to sell Hato comes as they seek to raise funds following a two-year absence from Champions League revenues. The Dutch club will return to Europe’s top-tier competition this season, but the transfer deal with Chelsea reflects their need to balance finances.
Chelsea’s summer transfer business continues
Hato would be Chelsea’s eighth signing this summer as the club has already spent over £250 million, offset by more than £150 million in player sales. Alongside Hato, Chelsea have brought in several young talents:
- Jamie Gittens, £48 million from Borussia Dortmund, an England youth international winger known for his pace and direct style.
- Joao Pedro, £55 million from Brighton, a creative Brazilian forward praised for his link-up play and finishing.
- Liam Delap, £30 million from Ipswich Town, a powerful striker with Premier League experience.
- Mamadou Sarr, £12 million from Lyon, a promising 19-year-old centre-back.
- Dario Essugo, £18 million from Sporting CP, a tenacious Portuguese midfielder who debuted at 16.
- Estevao Willian, a £29 million signing from Palmeiras, bringing Brazilian flair to the wing.
- Kendry Paez, an Ecuadorian teenager acquired for £17 million, who joined after turning 18.
Chelsea remain active in the transfer market, aiming to add another attacker and are open to selling players including Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson. Meanwhile, several players such as Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell are training separately from the first team under manager Enzo Maresca.
