Liverpool are keeping tabs on Ajax defender Jorrel Hato and could be making a move to get his signature in the summer transfer window, according to a report published in Football Insider. However, they are likely to get stiff competition from other clubs.
Their arch-rivals Manchester United are also interested in luring away the youngster, especially because of the presence of boss Erik ten Hag. Spanish club Barcelona have also registered their interest but they don’t have enough funds to sanction the buy.
Jorrel Hato is running the show for Ajax
Jorrel Hato came through the ranks of Ajax and broke into the senior team last season. Since then, he has taken huge strides in his footballing career and established himself as a reputed player. He is a regular start for the Dutch club and has played every minute of the domestic league games.
The defender has featured in 39 games this season so far, netting a goal and providing three assists. He is averaging 1.9 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 2.6 clearances per game. His passing accuracy also stands over 92%, allowing him to build attacks from the back (stats via whoscored).
Hato is almost 6 ft. and is a physically strong guy. He is always confident with the ball as he has accurate passing and dribbling skills. He is also good at reading the game to make interceptions and tackling is not an issue for him. Overall, the youngster is a complete package as a centre-back.
Will Liverpool pay a hefty sum for Jorrel Hato?
Surprisingly, Liverpool don’t have a left-footed centre-back in their package. Hence, they are interested in the signature of Jorrel Hato. The 18-year-old can be a long-term solution and even a replacement for Virgil van Dijk in the future.
However, Ajax won’t let one of their hottest properties leave that easily. They will surely demand a premium fee for the Dutch player. It will be interesting to see how this chapter unfolds in the near future.
