Chelsea have completed the signing of teenage Dutch defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax in a transfer reported to be worth £37 million ($49 million).
The 19-year-old, already capped six times for the Netherlands national team, has signed a seven-year deal with the Premier League club, adding to manager Enzo Maresca’s growing list of acquisitions ahead of the new season.
The versatile defender, who can play both at centre-back and left-back, becomes Chelsea’s eighth signing since the conclusion of last season as the club prepares for the intense dual demands of domestic and European football.
Hato expressed his excitement about the move, saying, “I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here. I thought a lot about my future and wanted to take the next step in my career. Chelsea is the best place for me to do that so I’m very happy.”
Hato’s football journey began at Sparta Rotterdam before he joined Ajax’s academy in 2018. He signed his first professional contract at 16 and quickly became a regular feature in Ajax’s senior team.
Over the course of his time with the Dutch giants, he made 111 appearances and scored four goals. His debut for the Netherlands came in 2023 in a match against Gibraltar, marking a significant milestone in his career.
This latest addition to Chelsea’s roster underlines the club’s strategy of investing in young talent. Before bringing Hato on board, the Blues had already secured the signatures of Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Mamadou Sarr, Dario Essugo, Estevao Willian, and Kendry Paez.
Chelsea, who currently hold the Club World Cup title, are set to kick off their Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge on August 17.
What You Should Know
Chelsea have signed 19-year-old Dutch international Jorrel Hato from Ajax in a high-profile £37 million transfer. With a seven-year contract in place, Hato joins as the eighth summer signing for the Blues, highlighting manager Enzo Maresca’s commitment to building a youthful and competitive squad.
Known for his versatility and composure in both central and wide defensive roles, Hato brings experience from over 100 appearances with Ajax and several international caps. His arrival boosts Chelsea’s defensive options ahead of a busy season in both the Premier League and the Champions League.
