Chelsea sign Dutch defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax

Chelsea have completed the signing of teenage Netherlands defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax in a deal worth a reported £37 million.

The 19-year-old, who has already earned six caps for the Dutch national team, has signed a seven-year contract with the Premier League side.

Hato becomes Chelsea’s eighth signing of the summer as manager Enzo Maresca continues to strengthen his squad for the challenges of both the Premier League and Champions League this season.

“I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here,” said Hato. “I thought a lot about my future and wanted to take the next step in my career. Chelsea is the best place for me to do that, so I’m very happy.”

Capable of playing both as a centre-back and left-back, Hato joined Ajax’s academy from Sparta Rotterdam in 2018 and signed his first professional deal at age 16.

He made 111 appearances for the Dutch giants, scoring four goals, and made his senior international debut in 2023 against Gibraltar.

Chelsea, who begin their Premier League campaign at home against Crystal Palace on August 17, have now spent over £250 million this summer. Hato follows the arrivals of Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Mamadou Sarr, Dario Essugo, Estevao Willian, and Kendry Paez.

The Blues are also preparing for a busy campaign that includes participation in the FIFA Club World Cup later in the season.

Anthony Nlebem

Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.

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