Chelsea are reportedly “moving closer” to finalising a deal for 19‑year‑old Netherlands international Jorrel Hato, who plays primarily at centre‑back but can also cover left‑back . Personal terms have been agreed between the player and Chelsea, and Ajax are said to be in advanced negotiations with the Blues over the transfer fee .
Reports suggest Chelsea’s offer of around £35–40 million (€40 million) is now close to the valuation expected by Ajax, who initially quoted closer to €50–60 million (£44–52 million) due to Hato’s five‑year contract and importance to the squad . Observers now expect that a compromise deal is imminent, likely involving structured payments and add‑ons that bridge the gap between both clubs’ valuations .
Hato made 111 appearances for Ajax, contributing four goals and nine assists, and has earned six senior caps for the Netherlands. He’s viewed as a long‑term prospect with high upside, fitting Chelsea’s blueprint of investing in young, left‑sided defenders . Although he may not immediately displace the likes of Levi Colwill or Marc Cucurella in the starting XI, especially when Cucurella is fit, Hato is expected to compete for minutes across both centre‑back and left‑back roles in the 2025‑26 season .
In parallel with the Hato negotiations, Fabrizio Romano and other insiders have confirmed Chelsea are confident of securing Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig, suggesting this move may proceed in tandem with Hato’s arrival .
Chelsea’s recent signings—including Liam Delap, João Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Mamadou Sarr—have already seen the club’s summer spend skyrocket past £250 million . Offloading players such as João Félix (headed to Al‑Nassr for £43–44 million) is crucial to balancing the books and complying with financial regulations, with
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