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Chelsea’s negotiations with Ajax for highly rated defender Jorrel Hato have taken an interesting turn, with the Dutch side inquiring about teenage full-back Ishe Samuels-Smith during discussions.
Samuels-Smith, who signed a long-term deal with Chelsea earlier this year, has yet to make his senior debut but is already attracting serious attention. Initially viewed as a potential replacement for Marc Cucurella, Chelsea now appear to be exploring alternative options in that role.
The 19-year-old has drawn interest from multiple Championship sides as well as RC Strasbourg, Chelsea’s sister club in France. The Blues are seeking a fee in the region of £8 million.
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According to Football London, Ajax expressed interest in a deal for Samuels-Smith, although they have yet to submit a formal bid. Meanwhile, the player’s representatives are currently in France, working on finalising a permanent move to Strasbourg. Samuels-Smith is believed to favour the move, and Chelsea are confident that a deal will be completed by the end of the week.
A switch to Strasbourg would provide Chelsea with greater flexibility, as they could include a buy-back or release clause to retain control over the player’s future. A move to Ajax, while attractive in terms of development opportunities, would not offer the same level of influence for Chelsea.
Chelsea Pushing Ahead with Hato Deal
In parallel, Chelsea are progressing quickly in their pursuit of Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, having already agreed personal terms with the Netherlands international. The 19-year-old has informed Ajax of his desire to join the London club, and Chelsea are looking to complete a deal worth around £34 million. The fee is reportedly being benchmarked against the £34m Arsenal paid for Jurrien Timber.
Hato, who can play both as a centre-back and left-back, is seen as a key reinforcement to fill the void left by Marc Cucurella, who is expected to depart this summer.
Should both deals be finalised, Hato could soon link up with fellow Dutch international Xavi Simons, another target Chelsea are actively pursuing.
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