Chelsea have reportedly moved to the front of the queue to sign Ajax defender Jorrel Hato this summer.
The 19-year-old has made over 100 competitive appearances since emerging from Ajax's highly-regarded youth system.
Hato featured in 50 matches in the 2024-25 campaign, predominantly playing as a left-back under Francesco Farioli.
However, he has previously demonstrated that he is comfortable operating in central defence, making him a versatile option for his potential suitors.
Chelsea are among the clubs that have been linked with a potential move for a player who has earned six caps for the Netherlands.
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Chelsea lead Hato transfer race
Arsenal and Liverpool have also been credited with an interest, while Spanish giants Real Madrid have been mentioned as a potential destination.
However, according to Caught Offside, Chelsea are currently in the best position to sign the Ajax defender this summer.
The report claims that Chelsea are leading the race after opening talks with the Dutch giants over a potential move for Hato.
Hato is under contract with Ajax until the summer of 2028, and there is expectation that it could take a deal worth €55m (£46.4m) to prise him away from the Amsterdam Arena.
© Imago
Do Chelsea need Hato?
While Chelsea may be keen to sign Hato, there is surely some doubt about whether he is a signing they need to make this summer.
Marc Cucurella has made the left-back position his own inn Enzo Maresca's side, which would close off one regular starting opportunity for Hato.
As previously mentioned, the Dutchman can play as a central defender, but the left centre-back spot currently belongs to Levi Colwill.
The Blues could look to sign a new centre-back partner for Colwill, however, they will surely try to recruit a right-footed option rather than a left-footed player like Hato.
With that in mind, Hato would have to settle for a backup role behind Cucurella and Colwill if he were to move to Stamford Bridge this summer.
It is difficult to see Chelsea pay a significant sum for a squad player, while Hato would surely want to join a club where he would get regular game time.
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