Arsenal prepared to go all out to sign Ajax star Jorrel Hato
Arsenal He signed Riccardo Calafiori this summer and has built an excellent defensive base with Jurrien Timber also appearing more frequently in the first team after returning to fitness. Despite having adequate depth, it appears the Gunners are not yet done rebuilding their defensive line.
Caught Offside (citing Spanish source Fichajes) stated who are willing to do everything possible for Ajax Amsterdam teenager Jorrel Hato. The 18-year-old is another excellent product of the Dutch side's academy and, having been monitored by Arsenal over the summer, remains on their radar ahead of 2025.
The report adds that Hato's versatility has particularly caught Arsenal's attention as he is capable of playing as a central defender and left back, so he can be a back-up option behind all of Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori and William Saliba until he is able to develop and seal his place in the starting eleven.
The fee it would cost Ajax to sell is not yet known, but Hato is valued at £25m per Transfer market and the Dutch giants would no doubt demand a significant sum to cash in on their star man.
Do Arsenal need him?
Arsenal are not in a precarious defensive position and have a fantastic department of young players who can last for the foreseeable future. That is why it is surprising to see them reflecting on the signing of Hato.
Many would suggest that Arteta should focus more on strengthening his midfield and attack rather than spending some of his transfer budget on another defender.
Thomas Partey's contract is unlikely to be renewed once it expires at the end of the season and Jorginho is also expected to face a similar fate. Therefore, it will be essential for the club to sign a defensive midfielder like Declan Rice and Mikel Merino could be understaffed and overworked if Arteta continues to use them in a double pivot.
Meanwhile, Gabriel Jesus has not shown any hint of good form in recent weeks and a top scorer should also be high on Arsenal's wish list in 2025.
Consequently, Hato's signing is likely to be put on hold, at least until two positions that require attention receive their due diligence.
