Chelsea are closing in on the signing of Jorrel Hato from Ajax, with negotiations progressing well between the two clubs. While a final agreement hasn’t been sealed yet, a deal worth over €40 million (£34.8m) is expected to be completed in the coming days.
🚨 Chelsea closing in on deal to sign Jorrel Hato from Ajax. Agreement between #CFC / #Ajax yet to be reached but getting nearer - compromise expected in coming days on price above €40m. Personal terms in place for 19yo Netherlands defender @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/SP1o31yvTX
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 28, 2025
Personal Terms Already Agreed
The Blues have already agreed personal terms with the 19-year-old Dutch international. Talks with Ajax began earlier this month, with Hato emerging as a priority target for Chelsea’s defensive rebuild. Arsenal had previously shown interest in January before the player signed a new five-year deal with Ajax.
Rising Star at Ajax
Hato has quickly established himself as one of the brightest defensive talents in Europe. Since making his first-team debut in January 2023, he has made 111 appearances for Ajax and even worn the captain’s armband. He played primarily as a left-back in the 2024-25 season but is also highly capable at centre-back.
🚨🇳🇱 Chelsea mantain total confidence to sign both Jorrel Hato and Xavi Simons.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 28, 2025
Negotiations continue this week with Ajax after total agreement with Hato last week, deal close.
Xavi Simons wants Chelsea and talks with RB Leipzig on the fee/structure of the deal are ongoing. pic.twitter.com/3gIxag4mbQ
International Pedigree
On the international stage, Hato has already earned six senior caps for the Netherlands. He joined Ajax’s academy from Sparta Rotterdam in 2018 and has been a regular in the first team since breaking through.
Another Youth Addition for Chelsea
Hato’s potential arrival fits the pattern of Chelsea’s youth-focused recruitment strategy. This summer, the club has already signed Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, and Jamie Gittens, along with pre-agreed deals for Estevao, Dario Essugo, Mamadou Sarr, and Kendry Paez. The club has also seen the departures of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Noni Madueke, and Djordje Petrovic.
Hato against Aston villa 👀 pic.twitter.com/LVAlTT9Iuw
— OB (@CFC_OBED) July 28, 2025
What Hato Brings to the Squad
Hato is a technically gifted and composed defender who thrives in possession-based systems. His 89% pass completion rate last season was among the best for full-backs in the Eredivisie, reflecting his quality on the ball. Defensively, he’s a smart reader of the game and solid in one-on-one situations. Although not yet dominant in the air, his physical game is expected to grow as he matures.
Opinion: Smart Long-Term Move for Chelsea
From a neutral perspective, this looks like a very smart piece of business by Chelsea. Hato is young, versatile, and already experienced at both club and international level. With his calmness on the ball and tactical intelligence, he fits perfectly into a modern backline. If developed properly, Hato could become a cornerstone of Chelsea’s defence for years to come — a high-upside investment that aligns well with the club’s long-term vision.
