Chelsea Are In Discussions To Land This Ajax Full-Back: What Will He Add To Maresca’s Team? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalist Mark Brus mentioned that Chelsea are in discussions to land Ajax full-back Jorell Hato. It has been stated that the Blues are eyeing a move to bring the Dutch defender to Stamford Bridge this summer.

Hato’s Impressive Rise In Dutch Football

Hato has put in a run of impressive displays on the left side of Ajax’s defence during this Eredivisie campaign. The Dutch talent has participated in 50 matches for his current employers this season, scoring three times and securing six assists across various competitions.

The 19-year-old has been a solid defender inside his half based on his average of 1.9 tackles, 0.7 interceptions and 2.0 clearances per game in the Dutch Eredivisie. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball from the back after making 90.3% of his attempted passes in the Dutch first division (stats via whoscored).

His current deal at the Dutch club will run out in the summer of 2028 which could make it difficult for the Blues to sign him on the cheap this off-season.

ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – NOVEMBER 19: Jorrel Hato of Netherlands (L) vies with Ivan Sunjic of Bosnia and Herzegovina (L) during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A3 match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Netherlands at Bilino Polje stadium on November 19, 2024 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

What Will Hato Add To Chelsea Boss Enzo Maresca’s Team?

Hato is a good tackler of the ball and can read the danger well to make some timely interceptions on the defensive end of the field. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot.

The Dutch full-back can even contribute by scoring and creating his fair share of goals from the left flank. He is primarily a left-back but can also serve as a central defender if asked to do so.

However, it remains to be seen whether Hato can adapt to the physical nature and high intensity of Premier League football. Still, we can expect him to add more quality to Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca’s backline.

At 19, the future looks quite bright for Hato as long as he continues to improve with each season. Therefore, it makes sense for the Blues to try and get him on board this summer as he would be a great signing for them in the long run. However, Maresca has to be patient with his progress before he can unlock the best out of the youngster at Stamford Bridge.