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Chelsea Agree Deal to Sign Jorrel Hato From Ajax
Chelsea have agreed to sign Dutch defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax for €43 million and a sell-on clause. He will have medical tests in London before signing a seven-year contract.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The 19-year-old has permission to travel to London for his transfer. Chelsea and Ajax have agreed on key details, and Hato will sign a long-term contract until 2032. Chelsea like that he can play both centre-back and left-back, having made 111 appearances for Ajax in his career. A report confirmed that Hato, who has also expressed his desire to join Chelsea, will join the team for pre-season after his medical check and become Chelsea’s latest summer signing.
CHELSEA’S SITUATION AHEAD OF NEW SEASON
Chelsea finished fourth in the 2024/25 Premier League, earning a Champions League spot, with 67 points, just ahead of Newcastle and behind Manchester City. After conceding 43 goals in 38 games, coach Enzo Maresca aims to strengthen the defense as he also aims to take load from the team’s most used player, left-back Cucurella. Hato had a solid year with Ajax, playing 31 matches last Eredivisie season, scoring two goals and providing three assists, showcasing his calmness and flexibility in defense.
WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA AND HATO?
After his medical, Hato will join Chelsea’s training and prepare for the new season under Maresca. Chelsea’s first game in the 2025/26 season is against Crystal Palace. They will also participate in the UEFA Champions League. Hato’s arrival is expected to bolster the team’s defensive competition as Chelsea seeks to solidify their place in the top four and return to the Champions League. Ajax will need to rebuild after finishing third in the Eredivisie and losing another talented young player.