• Jorrel Hato completes his transfer to Chelsea from Ajax as Enzo Maresca lands seventh summer signing.

Chelsea have officially unveiled Dutch defensive prodigy Jorrel Hato as their latest summer acquisition, securing the 19-year-old on a seven-year contract reportedly worth €43 million.

After weeks of speculation and drawn-out negotiations, the London club confirmed the signing of the highly-rated teenager from Ajax, tying him down until 2032. Hato, widely regarded as one of the most promising talents in Dutch football, becomes Chelsea’s seventh senior signing of the summer transfer window.

Speaking to the club’s official media, the Netherlands international expressed his delight at joining the Blues:
“I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here. 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 so I’m very happy.”

Jorrel Hato is officially a Blue. 🔵✍️ pic.twitter.com/j1d1o88yWu

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 3, 2025

Hato made history at Ajax when he became the third-youngest player ever to debut for the senior team in the Eredivisie at just 16 years old. His maturity and composure have since made him a standout figure in Dutch football, attracting interest from several top European clubs.

He is expected to join up with Enzo Maresca’s squad for pre-season training this week as he begins his integration into the Premier League side. Hato’s versatility allows him to operate as a centre-back or left-back, where he will compete with the likes of Marc Cucurella, Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Trevoh Chalobah for minutes.

 

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Hato’s first potential outing in blue could come on August 8, when Chelsea face Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen in a high-profile pre-season friendly at Stamford Bridge. The Blues kick off their 2025/26 Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace on Sunday, August 17.

Alongside Hato, Chelsea have already bolstered their squad this summer with the arrivals of Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, Mamadou Sarr, and Kendry Paez, signalling a youth-driven rebuild under new boss Maresca.

 

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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.

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Ajax midfielder Jordan Henderson has admitted that his decision to move to Saudi Arabia last summer was “a mistake”. Having faced a decline in his role at Liverpool, Henderson chose to transfer to Saudi Arabia to join forces with Reds legend Steven Gerrard. However, he received significant backlash for his choice to relocate to a country where homosexuality is outlawed.

Initially defending his move and expressing his dedication to aiding Saudi Arabia’s progress both on and off the field, Henderson ultimately terminated his contract in January and returned to Europe, signing with Ajax.

Speaking to Het Parool in an interview, Henderson acknowledged that the move to Saudi Arabia was not the right fit for him.

“I made a mistake, but I am happy with the Ajax project,” he stressed.

“Everyone has an opinion, some more intense than others. That’s fine and part of it. I’m used to something. But people don’t know the whole story. Only I know that.

“During those five months in Saudi Arabia I learned a lot about myself. What are my motivations? Why do I actually play football? Football is something that is in my blood, I now know. And the competition in Saudi Arabia is developing and will become bigger, but it does not suit me at the moment.

“I live for European nights like against Aston Villa. I want to create a big surprise with my teammates.”

After being jeered by supporters on his England national team debut earlier this season, Henderson is prepared for a harsh reception when he returns to the country on Thursday to play Villa in the second leg of the Europa Conference League last 16.

“When people whistle at me, it gives me extra motivation,” he stressed. “Proving critics wrong is a common thread in my career that has not worn out over the years. It’s my way of expressing emotions. A passion that belongs to me.”

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Jordan Henderson is making an immediate impact at Ajax, setting a new record for the fastest-selling jersey in the club’s rich history with his No.6 shirt.

The English midfielder, having concluded a challenging six-month stint with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, has landed in the Netherlands. Henderson, a former captain of Liverpool, has inked a two-and-a-half-year deal with Ajax.

Hendo is here.

— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) January 18, 2024

His arrival has generated significant excitement among fans, leading to a rush for official merchandise. The demand for Henderson’s No.6 jersey has eclipsed previous sales records set by Dusan Tadic and Daley Blind, surpassing their weekly figures in just 24 hours.

The only Ajax jersey to have outsold Henderson’s is the special edition Bob Marley shirt from the 2021–22 season. This remarkable achievement places Henderson in a league of his own among individual player jersey sales at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

‘I love all of them!’ – @JHenderson ♥️ pic.twitter.com/4gAv2AxxmT

— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) January 19, 2024

Henderson’s popularity extends beyond the borders of the Netherlands, thanks to his association with Premier League powerhouse Liverpool. He inherits the No.6 jersey previously worn by Davy Klaassen and, pending registration, aims to make his debut in Sunday’s Eredivisie clash against RKC Waalwijk.

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Ajax has officially announced the signing of Jordan Henderson on a contract spanning two and a half years. This move comes after the termination of his contract with Al-Ettifaq, marking the conclusion of a challenging stint in Saudi Arabia. The 33-year-old swiftly departed from the Saudi Pro League team, unable to find his footing in the country since departing from Liverpool the previous summer.

Following the confirmation of his signing, the English international promptly expressed gratitude to his former teammates and fans via social media. He also took the opportunity to elucidate the reasons behind his departure from the Saudi club.

‘I’m sad to say that I will be leaving Al-Ettifaq with immediate effect.’ He wrote on X, formerly Twitter. ‘It wasn’t an easy decision but one that I feel is best for me and my family.

‘I want to take this opportunity to thank the club & the fans for all the support during my time. I really felt the love from Day One. I’ll keep watching & hoping for your success. Good luck for the future.’

I’m sad to say that I will be leaving Al Ettifaq with immediate effect. It wasn’t an easy decision but one that I feel is best for me and my family.
I want to take this opportunity to thank the club & the fans for all the support during my time. I really felt the love from Day… pic.twitter.com/Jouk4ad6Gf

— Jordan Henderson (@JHenderson) January 18, 2024

In a video announcement, Ajax celebrated the significant signing, praising Jordan Henderson’s leadership skills and his familiarity with playing in ‘red and white,’ harkening back to his formative years with his childhood club, Sunderland.

Jordan, welcome to Ajax ❌❌❌ pic.twitter.com/nAZhQACt5E

— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) January 18, 2024

Ajax interim boss John van’t Schip told the club’s website: ‘We wanted an experienced midfielder with leadership qualities. Partially due to injuries in the team, we were looking for someone who could step in immediately. Jordan Henderson is that type of player.

‘His arrival means a huge enhancement for our squad. Both on and off the pitch, a football player of this calibre is important for our many young players.

‘He’s an English international player and has won the Champions League and many other prizes with Liverpool. I am happy he’s here.’

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According to reports, Jordan Henderson has agreed to leave the Saudi Pro League team Al Ettifaq and is on the verge of permanently joining Ajax.

The three-year deal that the England international signed last summer is currently being finalized between him and his present team, guaranteeing that there won’t be a transfer fee associated with the midfielder’s departure.

Henderson has agreed to a potential deal with Ajax and is currently returning to the UK from Al Ettifaq’s winter training camp in Abu Dhabi.

🚨⚪️🔴 Jordan Henderson to Ajax, here we go! Agreement completed right now as former Liverpool captain will travel to Amsterdam on Thursday.

Medical tests to follow tomorrow.

Top signing revealed last week now done.

Exclusive story, confirmed.@TurkishAirlines ✈️ pic.twitter.com/WGCiFwFK0T

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 17, 2024

Before the 33-year-old former Liverpool midfielder’s temporary comeback to European football is finalized, paperwork and other formalities around that prospective move must be worked out.

Henderson’s exit from Saudi Arabia comes just six months after his move from Anfield.

Henderson left Liverpool after a 12-year tenure in July to travel to Saudi Arabia, and in September, he justified his decision following significant criticism, telling The Athletic in an exclusive interview that he wanted to “achieve something special and build a club and build the league.”

He played 17 times in the SPL, making four assists for the side led by former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard, but left midway through his first season with the club.

Henderson has also failed to impress at Al-Ettifaq, which is coached by another former Liverpool captain, Steven Gerrard, and now ranks eighth in the Saudi Pro League. For league officials, his decision to force a move back to Europe represents a big blow to their ambitions of making Saudi Arabia a leading player in world football.

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Brighton’s first taste of continental play has pitted them against Ajax and Marseille, while Scottish heavyweights Rangers, who failed to qualify for the Champions League, will face Real Betis and Sparta Prague.

• EUROPA LEAGUE GROUP STAGE DRAW IN FULL

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Fulham have announced the signing of defender Calvin Bassey from Ajax.

According to The Athletic, the clubs agreed on a transfer fee in the area of €21 million (£19 million, $24.4 million), and Bassey has now signed a deal with Fulham until 2027, with a club option for a further year. While with Fulham, he will wear the No. 3 jersey.

The Premier League team turned down an earlier bid of roughly £15 million, but Ajax accepted a higher figure plus a sell-on fee.

“I know how big of a club Fulham is,” Bassey said on his move. “They always have quality players, they’re playing in the Premier League, the best league in the world, so I didn’t have to think much about it.

“It’s a London club as well, so it’s always a plus to go home! I’m happy it’s all done now and I can just focus on the football and help the team build on last season, when they did amazing.”

Joining the journey… 🌴 pic.twitter.com/Gij3Y6PFbu

— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) July 28, 2023

Brighton & Hove Albion expressed interest in Bassey, who had four years left on his Ajax deal. The 23-year-old only signed for Ajax last summer after spending two years at Rangers, where he made 65 total appearances and won the Scottish Cup and league championships in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

He later made 39 appearances for Ajax, making one goal and five assists in a challenging season for the Dutch team, which saw them finish last in the Eredivisie since 2008-09.

Bassey, who graduated from Leicester City’s junior academy, made his Nigeria debut in March 2022 and has since earned 10 caps.

This week, despite the ongoing ambiguity surrounding Aleksandar Mitrovic’s future, Fulham also confirmed the signing of forward Raul Jimenez.

Welcome to Fulham, @CalvinBassey! 🤝

— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) July 28, 2023

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Jurrien Timber has joined Arsenal from Ajax in a £40 million ($52 million) transfer.

Timber has agreed to terms with Arsenal on a long-term contract. The Gunners have been in talks with Ajax for some time and have finally announced the signing of the defender.

The Arsenal family continues to grow ❤️ pic.twitter.com/VovE3Zt24J

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 14, 2023

As Mikel Arteta’s second summer signing after Kai Havertz, Timber has stated that he wants to be a part of “something special” at Arsenal. The Gunners are also hoping to recruit Declan Rice from West Ham. After 121 appearances for Ajax and 15 caps for the Netherlands, Timber is moving on.

Speaking in his announcement video, Timber said: “When I watched games with my brothers when I was a kid, of course I wanted to play for one of the biggest and best teams in the world but I really had a sense that it had to be a team that plays the right way, a club that has the right values, that develops young talent and has an unbreakable bond with its supporters. Now that I’m here, I feel at home already. Something special is happening here and I want to be part of it. Now let’s get to work.”

Speaking to Arsenal’s club channels on Timber’s signing, Mikel Arteta said: “We’re really excited that Jurrien has joined us. He is a versatile young defender, who will fit into our system and provide our squad with so much added quality.

“Jurrien is a young player, but has already achieved so much. He has experienced what it’s like to go to a major international tournament on more than one occasion, as well as the trophies he has won with Ajax. We look forward to welcoming and integrating Jurrien into the squad.”

Arsenal play the Major League Soccer All-Stars next week but it remains to be seen if Timber will be involved.

Welcome to The Arsenal, Jurrien Timber 🤩

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 14, 2023

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The 2022/2023 UEFA Europa League final between Sevilla and AS Roma will be remembered for days to come, but everyone’s attention is now focused on the 2023/2024 tournaments as the best teams in various leagues around Europe are set to compete for the coveted title.

The UEFA Europa League will kick off on August 10, 2023. This date is confirmed for teams that have not secured a permanent spot in the competition.

It kicks off after the qualifying round of the Champions League as teams who crash out of the game would feature in the qualifying round of this competition.

• When will the Europa League qualifying rounds be held?

Third qualifying round: 10 and 17 August 2023
Play-offs: 24 and 31 August 2023

• When do the 2023–24 Europa League season’s group rounds begin?

The UEFA Europa League group stages are scheduled to begin on September 21, 2023, while UEFA has stated that this date is susceptible to change in the future. Here are all of the competition’s match dates:

Matchday 1: September 21 2023
Matchday 2: October 5 2023
Matchday 3: October 26 2023
Matchday 4: November 9 2023
Matchday 5: November 30 2023
Matchday 6: December 14 2023

• When is the knockout round of the 2023–2024 Europa League?

The knockout stages of the Europa League will be played on the following dates:

Knockout round play-offs: 15 and 22 February 2024
Round of 16: 7 and 14 March 2024
Quarter-finals: 11 and 18 April 2024
Semi-finals: 2 and 9 May 2024
Final: May 22 2024

• Where might the 2023–2024 Europa League finals be held?

The 2023–24 Europa League title finals will be held at Dublin Arena in the Republic of Ireland; the match’s official date is still being finalized by UEFA.

The full list of teams assured a spot in the 2023–2024 Europa League is as follows:

Ajax (Netherlands), LASK (Austria), Aberdeen (Scotland), Cukaricki (Serbia), Zorya Luhansk (Ukraine), Union Saint-Gilloise (Belgium), and Lugano (Switzerland) are the teams that would, nevertheless, compete in the last round of qualifying for the Europa League before the competition’s group stages.

Olympiacos (Greece) and Slavia Prague (Czech Republic) are two clubs with a spot in the third qualifying round of the tournament. Other teams will enter after losing in the qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League.

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Ajax have revealed that Edwin van der Sar will leave his role as chief executive officer of the club this summer.

The former goalkeeper for Fulham and Manchester United joined Ajax’s marketing staff in 2012 and quickly rose through the ranks. He was impressed with his work in the background and attracted attention with rumours of a reunion with United, his previous employers.

Van der Sar was hotly pursued by United last summer when they were looking for a new sports director, but the Dutchman said he could not accept the position since he was “not finished” with Ajax.

Van der Sar has already acknowledged that he is ready to leave Ajax and will take up his responsibilities in June, though the former goalkeeper has promised to stay on until August 1 to aid in the transition to new leadership.

“After almost eleven years on the board, I am done,” Van der Sar said. “We have experienced wonderful things together, but it has also been an incredibly tough period. I am very grateful for the people I have met and worked with during my second career at Ajax, and what we have achieved and been through together.

“I feel the need to take some distance, to get some rest, and to do other things. It doesn’t feel good to take decisions about the future of this wonderful club in the coming period. That is why I have decided to resign.”

Thanks for everything, Edwin ♥️

You embraced the role of CEO with the same vision that defined your days as a player. We are forever grateful for that. Once an Ajax legend, always an Ajax legend.

— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) May 30, 2023

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After joining from Ajax in the summer, Manchester United winger Antony has shared his favorite moment while wearing a Red Devils jersey.

United’s interest in Antony was originally made known in February 2022, and it grew after they hired Erik ten Hag as manager.

The Brazilian international moved to Old Trafford at the close of the summer transfer season for an initial £82 million after a drawn-out transfer drama.

Antony has mainly disappointed in a United jersey thus far, even if his record of seven goals in 30 appearances across all competitions is rather respectable and he contributed to the team’s Carabao Cup victory.

He made a fast start to life in England after scoring on his debut – a 3-1 win over Premier League leaders Arsenal at Old Trafford.

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And in an interview with GQ, Antony picked out this moment as his favourite so far for United.

“I think my first [goal was my favourite moment]. It was like living a dream,” he said.

“Making my Manchester [United] debut, at Old Trafford, in a derby against Arsenal, and still scoring a goal? It is not possible to be more perfect.”

As mentioned, Antony has so far failed to live up to his monstrous price tag, though this is understandable as he is still only 23 and this is his first season in England.

But, his highlight reel is rather good. He has scored incredible long-range goals against elite teams like Manchester City and Barcelona, and most recently, he scored in United’s 4-1 victory against Real Betis at home.

Antony made a fast start to life in England, scoring in each of his first three Premier League games. However, he has not found the net in the league since the final goal of this stretch all the way back in September.

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