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Arsenal step up efforts to sign Hato ahead of Chelsea

By on June 21, 2025

Jorrel Hato Ajax

Arsenal have reportedly stepped up efforts to sign Ajax Amsterdam star Jorrel Hato ahead of Chelsea, as per Caught Offside.

After ranking through the Dutch giants’ youth system, the 19-year-old made his first team debut a couple of years ago before establishing himself as a key player in recent campaigns.

Having been impressed by the youngster’s performances in the 2023/24 season, the Gunners registered their interest in signing him last summer. But they didn’t formalise their interest; instead, they decided to hire Riccardo Calafiori.

Hato enjoyed a promising campaign at Johan Cruyff Arena last term, scoring two goals and registering six assists in 31 appearances in the Eredivisie. Moreover, he helped his side keep 11 clean sheets.

Now, Caught Offside claim that although Arsenal didn’t go for him last summer, they remain keen on signing him. However, purchasing him won’t be easy as Chelsea are in this race as well.

Mikel Arteta’s side have already stepped up their efforts by opening formal talks with Ajax to seal the deal ahead of Chelsea. Moreover, they have held positive talks with the player’s representatives and have already sent a six-year contract offer to the defender. He is now evaluating it before making his final decision.

Hato to Arsenal

Hato is valued at around £30m by Transfermarkt and has a contract until 2028. So, Ajax are unlikely to let him leave for cheap. He is a centre-back by trait but can also be deployed in the left-back position.

In terms of numbers, Arsenal are currently well stocked on the left side of the defence, even though Kieran Tierney and Oleksandr Zinchenko are looking all set to leave.

The North London club currently have Myles Lewis-Skelly and Calafiori; moreover, Jurrien Timber can provide cover in this position if needed.

Therefore, Arsenal don’t need to add depth to this area, but Hato possesses the ideal attributes to flourish in Arteta’s system. So the Spanish boss seemingly doesn’t want to pass on an opportunity to sign a player like him.

It is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually opt to lure him to the Emirates Stadium before the start of next season.