Chelsea Reach Agreement for Ajax Defender Jorrel Hato

Chelsea have finalised an agreement 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 Dutch international is expected to sign a seven-year contract, keeping him at Stamford Bridge until 2032. He has been granted permission to travel to west London and is set to undergo a medical.

Chelsea view Hato as a highly promising defensive talent capable of providing competition across the backline, with the versatility to operate both as a left-back and a central defender.

Hato made his senior debut for Ajax in February 2023 at the age of 16 years and 335 days, making him the third-youngest player ever to appear in an Eredivisie match for the Amsterdam side. Since then, he has made 75 appearances for the club and earned his senior Netherlands debut in 2023.

Ajax have opted to sell the defender amid financial constraints, following two seasons without Champions League football. The club is set to return to Europe’s elite competition this term but still faces pressure to balance the books.

Chelsea are thought to be nearing the conclusion of their summer transfer business, although they remain in the market for an additional attacking player. The club have held discussions with representatives of RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons but have yet to table an official offer.

In terms of outgoings, Chelsea are looking to offload several players. Christopher Nkunku is reportedly expected to depart, while the club are also open to selling striker Nicolas Jackson should a suitable offer be received.

Meanwhile, a group of players deemed surplus to requirements continue to train away from Enzo Maresca’s first team. This list includes Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell, Renato Veiga, Axel Disasi, Carney Chukwuemeka, Armando Broja and Lesley Ugochukwu.

Chelsea’s 2025 Summer Signings So Far
Should the Hato deal be finalised, he will become Chelsea’s eighth signing of the summer window. The club’s spending has exceeded £250 million, offset by over £150 million in player sales.

• Jamie Gittens – £48m from Borussia Dortmund
The England youth international arrives with a growing reputation as a direct and pacey winger capable of unlocking defences.

• Joao Pedro – £55m from Brighton
Chelsea moved swiftly to secure the Brazilian forward, who impressed in the Premier League with his creativity, link-up play, and finishing prowess.

• Liam Delap – £30m from Ipswich Town
A powerful striker with Premier League experience, Delap offers a different profile to Chelsea’s attacking line-up.

• Mamadou Sarr – £12m from Lyon
The 19-year-old centre-back, a product of Lyon’s academy, brings strength and composure and is regarded as a signing for the future.

• Dario Essugo – £18m from Sporting CP
A tenacious Portuguese midfielder known for his maturity, having made his senior debut in Liga Portugal at the age of 16.

• Estevão Willian – £29m from Palmeiras
The Brazilian winger’s move was agreed in May 2024 and completed this summer, adding flair and youth to Chelsea’s flanks.

• Kendry Páez – £17m from Independiente del Valle
Although the deal was agreed in 2023, the Ecuadorian wonderkid officially joined this summer after turning 18 in May.