Chelsea have officially completed the signing of highly-rated Dutch international defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax, ending a transfer saga that has intensified significantly in recent weeks.
The deal is worth a reported €43 million. The 19-year-old, who is regarded as one of the most promising defensive talents in European football, joins the club on a long-term contract and becomes a key part of Chelsea’s youth-focused project.
The transfer was heavily pushed by Hato himself. Last week, he made headlines by requesting to be left out of an Ajax pre-season friendly to avoid any potential injury that could jeopardize his dream move to Stamford Bridge, a clear sign of his determination to join the Blues.
In his first comments as a Chelsea player, Hato expressed his delight with the move. “I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here,” he said. “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 becomes the latest young superstar to join Chelsea’s ambitious project this summer. His arrival comes as the club is also in advanced talks to sign another top Dutch talent, Xavi Simons, a move that is expected to be funded by the recent profitable sale of João Félix to Al Nassr.
After some tough negotiations with Ajax, Chelsea have finally secured their top defensive target. Hato’s arrival adds immense quality and future potential to their backline, continuing the club’s aggressive and youth-oriented recruitment strategy.