Chelsea Transfer Target Pushes for Exit as Agent Reveals Active Negotiations

Jorrel Hato has allegedly informed Ajax management of his desire to depart the Amsterdam club in favor of a move to Chelsea.

After securing the signings of Liam Delap, João Pedro and Jamie Gittens during this transfer window, Chelsea continue their squad reinforcement efforts with their attention focused on two Netherlands internationals. Discussions are advancing with RB Leipzig regarding midfielder Xavi Simons, while Hato has become their primary defensive acquisition target.

Hato's representative, Humphry Nijman, acknowledged to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf that the 19-year-old defender is engaged in discussions with Chelsea, having established his reputation as among the finest young talents in global football. Fabrizio Romano reports that personal contract terms have been successfully negotiated.

Sources suggest Hato has now requested Ajax's leadership to facilitate a transfer that would bring him to Chelsea during this summer window.

An additional report from De Telegraaf indicates Ajax are seeking approximately €60 million (£52 million, $70.5 million) for Hato's transfer, though Romano claims negotiations are advancing for a deal valued around €40 million (£34.7 million, $47 million)—representing a considerable gap in valuations.

Chelsea had anticipated funding this acquisition through the departure of Portuguese defender Renato Veiga, who was heavily pursued by Atlético Madrid, but the Blues' €40 million asking price proved excessive. MARCA reports that Atlético's acquisition of David Hancko will conclude their pursuit of Veiga.

This development is not anticipated to derail Chelsea's chase for Hato, nevertheless. The Dutch international has remained on Chelsea's watchlist for several months, with his versatility to operate as both left-back and centre-back making him an attractive prospect.

Veiga was intended to serve as Enzo Maresca's backup to current first-choice left-back Marc Cucurella but sought increased opportunities at centre-back, ultimately resulting in a January loan to Juventus and probable summer exit.

Left-back remains a position of priority for Chelsea, who have acted swiftly to counter competing Premier League interest in Hato. Arsenal and Liverpool have both been linked as potential suitors, but it seems the Blues are positioned to secure his services.