Chelsea have confirmed the signing of highly rated Ajax defender Jorrel Hato for a reported fee just under £38 million.
The 19-year-old Dutch international joins on a seven-year deal, with Chelsea paying an initial £35.5 million plus add-ons.
“I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here,” Hato told Chelsea’s official website.
“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.”
Hato came through the Ajax academy after joining from Sparta Rotterdam in 2018 and signed his first pro contract at age 16. He leaves Ajax having become a key figure in their back line.
Ajax technical director Alex Kroes acknowledged the loss:
“With Jorrel’s transfer, we lose one of our pillars in defence… He’s a great talent and an even better person. Though we hoped to keep him longer, we respect his decision and wish him success in England.”
Hato is Chelsea’s eighth summer signing, following the arrivals of:
- Joao Pedro (£60m)
- Jamie Gittens (£51.1m)
- Liam Delap (£30m)
- Estevao Willian (£29.1m)
- Dario Essugo (£18.5m)
- Kendry Paez (£17.3m)
- Mamadou Sarr (£12m)
The Blues have now spent over £250 million this summer—second only to Liverpool, who’ve splashed out £295.5 million.
