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Chelsea Seal €43M Deal for Ajax Starlet Jorrel Hato
Chelsea have successfully reached a full agreement with Ajax to sign highly-rated teenage defender Jorrel Hato in a deal worth €43 million, according to reports from multiple trusted sources, including Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein of The Athletic.
The 19-year-old left-footed center-back, who has been on Chelsea’s radar for weeks, is set to sign a seven-year contract with the West London club after prolonged negotiations between both clubs finally came to a close.
The deal makes Hato the eighth signing of the summer for the Blues and their third €40M+ purchase, following the arrivals of Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro earlier in the window. He will also rank among the top five biggest departures in Ajax’s transfer history, tying with Mohammed Kudus, who also moved for €43 million.
🚨🔵 BREAKING: Jorrel Hato to Chelsea, here we go! Deal in place with Ajax for fee in excess of €40m.
Hato will sign long term deal at Chelsea as he only wanted to join #CFC this summer.
Medical and travel set to be booked for talented defender. pic.twitter.com/5oWwNlANYp
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 30, 2025
Despite Ajax initially holding out for a higher valuation, Dutch outlet De Telegraaf revealed that Ajax director Alex Kroes opted to lower the club’s demands to honour Hato’s desire to join Chelsea, especially after the youngster had already agreed personal terms. The Dutch club eventually accepted a total package valued between €43 and €45 million, including potential bonuses.
Hato leaves Ajax after making 111 first-team appearances, becoming the youngest player in the club’s history to reach 100 games. His maturity, ball-playing ability, and versatility on the left side of defence have made him one of the most sought-after talents in European football.
Now set for a new chapter at Stamford Bridge, Hato is expected to add depth, youth, and future leadership potential to Chelsea’s defensive setup under manager Enzo Maresca.