Chelsea have sealed the signing of highly rated Dutch defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax. Softfootball understands that the Blues have agreed on personal terms with the 19-year-old and are now moving their attention to finishing the deal for Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons amidst the prying eyes of Bayern Munich.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the move on his official X account, stating that the west London club had reached a full agreement with Ajax and were in the process of arranging Hato’s medical and final documentation.
Romano shared via X:
“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.”
The transfer fee is believed to be slightly north of €40 million (£35 million), and Hato is expected to strengthen Chelsea’s options both at centre-back and left-back under new manager Enzo Maresca.
Hato made headlines last year by becoming the youngest player ever to captain Ajax at the age of 17. He also earned his senior debut for the Netherlands shortly after. Most recently, he featured for the Dutch Under-21s at the European Championship in Slovakia, helping them reach the semi-finals.
In a further show of intent, Chelsea have now turned their attention to RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, a close friend and international teammate of Hato. Discussions are said to be underway, with the Blues aiming to secure a deal for the versatile attacker who can play across the front line.
Simons joined Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain for €50 million earlier this year following two standout loan spells, and while Bayern Munich have shown interest, the 22-year-old reportedly prefers a Premier League move. A deal could cost Chelsea up to €70 million.
Chelsea have already been active in the market this summer, bringing in Liam Delap, João Pedro, and Jamie Gittens. Departures include goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, winger Noni Madueke, and Djordje Petrovic. João Félix also completed a £44 million switch to Al-Nassr earlier this week.
