Chelsea Secures Dutch Defender Hato from Ajax in Transfer Deal
Chelsea Bolsters Defensive Line with Signing of Jorrel Hato
Chelsea FC has added to its squad for the 2025-2026 season with the acquisition of Jorrel Hato, a 19-year-old Dutch defender who joins from Ajax. The versatile defender, who can operate in central defence or at left-back, signed a seven-year contract with the Premier League giants on August 3, 2025.
Hato, who captained Ajax at the age of 17, expressed his excitement and happiness about joining Chelsea, citing the opportunity to take the next step in his career. The transfer fee agreed with Ajax was reportedly around £34.8 million.
The young defender has already made a name for himself in the Eredivisie, scoring four goals in 111 appearances for the giants. He also has six international caps to his name, having made his debut as a substitute against Gibraltar in 2023.
Chelsea has been strengthening its squad to cope with the demands of the Premier League and Champions League this term. Enzo Maresca, the boss of Chelsea, is confident that Hato will be a valuable addition to the team.
Hato joins a list of eight signings that Chelsea has made since the end of last season, including Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Mamadou Sarr, Dario Essugo, Estevao Willian, and Kendry Paez. However, Hato has not been mentioned as the first player signed by Chelsea after the eight earlier signings.
With Hato's arrival, Chelsea's defensive line looks stronger than ever. The Premier League campaign starts at home against Crystal Palace on August 17, and fans are eager to see how Hato will perform in the famous blue jersey.
Hato started his football journey at Sparta Rotterdam before joining Ajax's academy in 2018. He is now set to make a significant impact at Chelsea, having signed a contract that will keep him at the club until 2032.
References: [1] Chelsea FC Official Website [2] Ajax FC Official Website [3] ESPN FC
- Despite currently focusing on strengthening the defensive line, Chelsea FC's acquisition of Jorrel Hato indicates a broader plan to compete in both the Premier League and European leagues.
- Having signed Jorrel Hato, the versatile Dutch defender who excelled in the Eredivisie, Chelsea FC prepares to face Crystal Palace in their Premier League campaign with a formidable defence.
