Chelsea Complete Signing Of Dutch Defender Hato From Ajax

Chelsea has completed the signing of highly rated Dutch defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax in a deal reportedly worth £37 million ($49 million).

The 19-year-old, who has already made six senior appearances for the Netherlands national team, has signed a seven-year contract with the Premier League club.

Hato becomes Chelsea’s eighth signing since the end of last season as new manager Enzo Maresca continues to strengthen the squad ahead of a demanding campaign that includes both Premier League and Champions League fixtures.

“I’m very excited and happy to be here,” Hato said following the announcement.

“I thought carefully about my future and felt ready to take the next step in my career. Chelsea is the best place for me to do that.”

Capable of playing as a center-back or left-back, Hato joined Ajax’s academy from Sparta Rotterdam in 2018. He signed his first professional contract at 16 and went on to make 111 appearances for the Dutch giants, scoring four goals. He made his international debut in 2023 in a match against Gibraltar.

Chelsea, winners of the FIFA Club World Cup, kick off their 2025/26 Premier League season at home to Crystal Palace on August 17.

Before signing Hato, the Blues had already added Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Mamadou Sarr, Dario Essugo, Estevao Willian, and Kendry Paez to their ranks.