Chelsea move ahead of Real Madrid and Arsenal in transfer pursuit of 18-year-old Eredivisie sensation: Reports
Chelsea are reportedly leading the race to sign Ajax sensation Jorrel Hato, according to reports via CaughtOffside. The 18-year-old Dutch defender has emerged as a top target for a couple of European clubs this January.
Notable teams such as Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Liverpool are also believed to have shown concrete interest in signing Hato from Ajax.
However, as per the aforementioned source, Chelsea are now leading the race for the defender's signature. The Blues have identified Hato as a potential target to strengthen their backline that has been hit with a series of injuries this season.
Enzo Maresca's side is currently without the likes of Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile, while team captain Reece James only recently returned from a hamstring injury.
The Blues are already being tipped to add a centre-back to their ranks this January and Hato could be one of the faces that could be considered by the West London giants. The Ajax defender's versatility could also come in handy for Maresca, as he can operate as both a left-back and a left-centre-back.
His physicality and height also make him an ideal fit to play in the Premier League and has already been compared to Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk.
Chelsea transfer target names Premier League defender as his idol
Ajax defender Hato is currently the subject of transfer interest from a host of Premier League club sides following impressive performances this season.
The Dutch youngster has already made 28 appearances for Ajax this season across all competitions. He has also scored three goals for the Dutch giants while assisting in registering 13 clean sheets.
Meanwhile, the Chelsea-linked defender named Arsenal star and former teammate Jurrien Timber as his football idol.
Speaking to The Athletic last year in an interview, he stated:
"Coaches told me that I always needed to look up to Virgil van Dijk, but when I played in the under-18s, I always looked up to "Jurrien Timber."
“I played with him for six months before he left, and I learned so much from him. When I came into the first team, he was my mentor. I love his playing style, his calmness on the ball. And he is just a great defender in defending terms," he added.
Timber's side, Arsenal, are also in the race to sign Hato. However, they will have to compete with London rivals Chelsea for the player's signature, according to CaughtOffside sources.
