Chelsea has reached an agreement with Ajax for the transfer of defender Jorrel Hato, with a fee of approximately £37 million, pending approval from the Dutch club's supervisory board.
The 19-year-old Dutch player is anticipated to sign a seven-year contract, extending until 2032, and is set to undergo a medical examination after receiving permission to travel to West London.
Chelsea views Hato as a promising young talent who will enhance competition in their defense, capable of playing both as a left-back and in central defense.
Hato made his senior debut for Ajax in February 2023 at just 16 years and 335 days old, making him the third-youngest player to participate in an Eredivisie match for the club.
He has accumulated 75 appearances for the Eredivisie team and debuted for the senior Netherlands national team in 2023.
Ajax has opted to sell Hato due to the necessity of generating funds after two years without the significant revenues from the Champions League, although they are set to return to Europe's premier competition this season.
Chelsea is nearing the conclusion of their summer transfer activities but remains interested in acquiring another attacker. They have engaged in discussions with representatives of RB Leipzig's Xavi Simons but have not made a formal offer.
The club is also looking to facilitate further player sales, with Christopher Nkunku likely to depart and a willingness to consider offers for striker Nicolas Jackson.
A group of players not in Enzo Maresca's first-team plans is training separately, including Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell, Renato Veiga, Axel Disasi, Carney Chukwuemeka, Armando Broja, and Lesley Ugochukwu.
Who have Chelsea signed this summer?
Hato would become Chelsea's eighth signing this summer, with their total spending surpassing £250 million, balanced by over £150 million in player sales.
Jamie Gittens - £48 million from Borussia Dortmund. The England youth international is recognized for his direct, pacey style as a winger capable of breaking through defenses.
Joao Pedro - £55 million from Brighton. Chelsea quickly secured the Brazilian forward, known for his creativity, link-up play, and scoring capabilities in the Premier League.
Liam Delap - £30 million from Ipswich Town. A powerful striker with Premier League experience, Delap adds a different profile to Chelsea's attacking lineup.
Mamadou Sarr - £12 million from Lyon. The 19-year-old center-back is considered a future prospect, bringing strength and composure after advancing through Lyon's academy.
Dario Essugo - £18 million from Sporting CP. The highly regarded Portuguese midfielder is noted for his tenacity and maturity, having debuted in Liga Portugal at just 16 years old.
Estevao Willian - The Brazilian winger joined Chelsea from Palmeiras in a £29 million deal agreed in May 2024.
Kendry Paez - A £17 million agreement to sign the Ecuadorian teenager was made in 2023, with Paez joining Chelsea this summer after turning 18 in May.
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