Exclusive: Arsenal target Ajax wonderkid, face competition from Chelsea and Liverpool

Follow us on Google Discover

• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

Arsenal now want to sign highly-rated young defender Jorrel Hato from AFC Ajax this January but face competition from Chelsea and Liverpool, HITC Football understands.

The 17-year-old defender is already a full senior Netherlands international and has shone for Ajax despite their struggles this term. Hato has even captained the Eredivisie giants as a vital piece of their backline. He can also feature as either a centre-half or a left-back to earn fans.

Hato is out of contract in June 2025 and HITC Football understands Ajax are working hard to try and persuade him to extend his contract in the Dutch capital. However, if Hato refuses a new deal, then Ajax know they will have little option but to sell him come the summer sales.

Arsenal are well-placed to agree Jorrel Hato’s transfer from AFC Ajax

We also understand that Arsenal are well-placed to sign Hato but they are not alone in their interest. At various points this term, we understand that Chelsea, Liverpool and Real Madrid have all watched Hato. The Rotterdam native has started all 25 of his appearances this term.

It is further believed that Arsenal would target Hato’s transfer in January if Ajax now display a willingness to conclude a deal. But, as it stands, any move looks likely to be a summer one.

Any deal would also reunite the 5 ft 11 talent with Jurrien Timber after his switch to Arsenal.

Arsenal are doing their homework on Fenerbahce defender Ferdi Kadioglu

While Hato is looking unlikely to leave Ajax this month as it stands, Arsenal are in the market for the transfer of another defender. We understand that the Gunners have been doing their homework on Fenerbahce’s attacking wing-back Ferdi Kadioglu, who can play on either side.

The 24-year-old has mainly played as a left-back for the Super Lig side so far this term. But he can also operate as a right-back and has offered two goals plus three assists in 24 games across all competitions. Hato has only offered Ajax one goal and two assists from 25 fixtures.