As the summer window heats up, it is Arsenal, not Chelsea, Liverpool, or even Manchester United, who have made the first real move in the increasingly competitive pursuit of Dutch sensation Jorrel Hato, the Ajax teenager already making waves across Europe.
The 19-year-old wonderkid has long been on the radar of England’s elite, thanks to his seamless ability to operate as both a centre-back and a left-back, an invaluable dual-role skillset that modern managers crave. Despite his age, Hato already boasts maturity on the pitch well beyond his years, making him one of the Eredivisie’s standout defensive talents last season.
According to Caught Offside, Arsenal have held positive discussions with both Ajax and Hato’s representatives. The North London club have reportedly placed a six-year deal on the table, part of a wider project aimed at building a squad for the future.
Chelsea had previously opened talks of their own, while Liverpool and Newcastle United are said to be monitoring the situation. But with Chelsea now prioritising preparations for the Club World Cup, Arsenal have managed to gain the upper hand. Reports suggest the player is seriously considering the Gunners’ proposal, drawn to the long-term vision being pitched to him by Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar.
While Arsenal’s defensive line remains solid on paper, the move for Jorrel Hato appears to be a proactive one. Questions persist over William Saliba’s contract talks, and there are whispers that Thomas Partey’s departure could alter the team’s structure further. Arsenal may be eyeing Hato as a long-term anchor on the left side of a back three or as rotation for Oleksandr Zinchenko and Gabriel Magalhaes.
From a Manchester United standpoint, this move deserves close attention. Hato was once discussed as a future-proof option for United’s backline under Ten Hag, given the manager’s Ajax links and the player’s comfort with a progressive, ball-playing system. With questions over the durability of Lisandro Martinez and the inconsistencies surrounding Luke Shaw’s fitness, it is puzzling that United have yet to firm up interest in a player tailor-made for the Premier League’s intensity.
Liverpool, on the other hand, could prove to be a bigger hurdle for Arsenal. The Reds have agreed a deal for Jarell Quansah, while Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas have been linked with summer exits. Hato’s ability to function both at centre-back and left-back will give Arne Slot the depth he needs at Anfield.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United, are likely to view Hato as a potential long-term investment who could complement Sven Botman and fit into Eddie Howe’s evolving system, especially as the Magpies aim to build upon their return to the UEFA Champions League.
Arsenal’s aggressive approach for Jorrel Hato is an early statement of intent. But for Manchester United, this may be another case of letting a high-ceiling talent slip through the cracks. With rivals circling young stars who could define the next generation, United must be sharper in their recruitment or risk falling behind in the rebuild race.
