Chelsea Announce Signing of Jorrel Hato on Seven-Year Deal

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Jorrel Hato from Ajax on a seven-year deal for a fee of over £35 million ($44.2m) plus add-ons. The club has stated the fee is approximately €43 million, which includes a sell-on clause, highlighting Chelsea’s commitment to securing young talent.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Chelsea reached an agreement with Ajax for the Dutch center-back and the player traveled to London to undergo his medical and finalize the deal. The £35.5m fee for the Netherlands U21 international will include add-ons and bonuses. Ajax had initially sought around €60 million, but the two clubs finally shook hands for the above sum. The Blues have announced his signing on Saturday and he has been handed the No.3 jersey.

CHELSEA’S BUSY SUMMER

Hato is Chelsea’s latest signing following the arrival of Liam Delap for £50m ($60.9m) from Ipswich Town City. Hato was granted permission to fly to England on Tuesday evening and missed team trainings and matches prior to the move.

He agreed personal terms with Chelsea last month, as confirmed in previous reports, and the club hope to have the paperwork completed in time for him to be involved in the Premier League opener later this month.

WHAT NEXT FOR HATO?

Hato’s medical went on for longer than expected after it emerged he had strained his right knee in the warm-up for a pre-season game against Los Angeles FC last weekend. The injury is not as serious as first feared, but the club are cautiously easing him back into action. With Hato’s arrival, Chelsea can manage their defensive resources without making a significant long-term commitment.

Chelsea are not planning to register Hato’s squad number until just before the deadline, in order to comply with Premier League rules that state he cannot play competitive matches before the Premier League opener.