Chelsea’s latest summer signing, Jorrel Hato, has officially completed his long-anticipated move from Ajax, penning a seven-year contract after passing his medical in London earlier this week. The Blues paid €42 million for the 19-year-old Dutch international, fending off strong interest from Arsenal and other top European clubs.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, Hato said:
“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.”
Hato becomes the ninth signing of the summer for Chelsea and adds immediate depth and versatility to Enzo Maresca’s back line. Originally a central defender, Hato spent most of last season playing as a left-back for Ajax — a flexibility that could prove vital across Chelsea’s busy domestic and European calendar.
A Statement Signing for the Future
- Age: 19
- Senior appearances: 111 for Ajax
- International caps: 6 for the Netherlands
- Primary positions: Centre-back and left-back
Chelsea had been tracking Hato for months, with Arsenal also showing concrete interest before pivoting to sign Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia for €17m.
With Ben Chilwell’s injury issues, Benoît Badiashile’s inconsistency, and a lack of reliable left-sided depth, Hato offers both immediate competition and long-term potential. His tactical intelligence, passing ability, and calm presence under pressure align perfectly with Maresca’s vision for a ball-dominant side.
Chelsea fans will likely get their first glimpse of Hato in the club’s upcoming friendlies against Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan, with the teenager now set to join full training at Cobham.
What This Means for Chelsea
Hato’s arrival is further evidence of Chelsea’s commitment to building for the future without sacrificing present-day quality. His signing strengthens an already promising defensive unit and adds another top-tier young talent to the squad.
For a player who’s already captained Ajax and debuted for the Dutch national team — all before his 20th birthday — Hato’s Chelsea story is only just beginning, and the expectations will be high.
But based on his first words as a Blue, he’s more than ready for the challenge.
