Liverpool may be stepping on Arsenal’s toes in their pursuit of Jorrel Hato, Ajax’s highly-rated left-sided defender, who many are calling a “generational talent.”
As Liverpool look ahead, sporting director Richard Hughes is exploring options to secure a future left-back, while also focusing on new contracts for key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah.
A top priority is finding a long-term replacement for Andy Robertson. The 29-year-old Scot has faced some challenges in recent matches, particularly against talented wingers like Noni Madueke and Bukayo Saka. With Robertson showing signs of slowing down, Liverpool is beginning to search for fresh talent on the left side of defense.
One player catching their attention is Ajax’s Jorrel Hato. According to TBR Football, Liverpool scouts have been watching Hato closely this season. Hato, primarily playing as a left-back this year, also has the flexibility to operate as a center-back, making him a versatile option for Liverpool’s defensive needs.
Hato has been on Arsenal’s radar for a while, with trusted insider Fabrizio Romano describing him as a rare talent for his age and position. Arsenal views Hato as a “generational talent,” and Romano has highlighted the club’s belief in his potential to become a top left-footed center-back, a position that’s particularly tough to fill.
Romano noted that Arsenal has been monitoring Hato even after he extended his contract with Ajax, planning to possibly make a move either next summer or in the future. However, it seems Liverpool is now gearing up to give Arsenal some competition if and when Hato decides to leave the Dutch club.
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Hato has shown remarkable maturity for an 18-year-old, already surpassing 50 appearances in the Eredivisie. This season, he’s been particularly effective from his left-back role, contributing to Ajax’s attack with three goals and three assists across competitions, a notable feat for a young defender.
Most recently, Hato scored in Ajax’s significant 2-0 victory over Feyenoord, further cementing his status as an emerging star. His attacking contributions, coupled with his defensive abilities, make him an appealing target for top clubs, not just in England but across Europe.
Italian giants Juventus are also interested in Hato, according to TuttoJuve, and reports suggest his transfer fee could hover around €30 million (£25 million). While other options are available for Liverpool, such as Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri and Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, Hato’s price tag appears more budget-friendly.
Despite his young age, Hato’s composure and attacking instinct from the backline have made him a standout for Ajax. Liverpool and Arsenal are now closely monitoring his development, and both clubs see him as a player who could strengthen their squads in the coming years.
Liverpool may have an edge here due to their established reputation for nurturing young talent, especially defenders, into world-class players. However, Arsenal’s consistent interest and long-standing admiration could be a strong pull for Hato, given the Gunners’ recent success in signing young, high-potential players.
With both Premier League clubs keeping tabs on him, it’s likely that Hato’s next move will involve intense bidding and negotiation. Arsenal may need to act faster if they want to secure his services, as Liverpool has shown they’re ready to swoop in.
Hato’s potential transfer adds an exciting twist to the January window as these clubs plan for the future, and the Ajax star’s skills have already proven he’s ready for the big stage. For Liverpool, a young, versatile player like Hato would be a great fit, especially as they think about the long-term evolution of their defense.
If Liverpool does make a serious move, they could set off a bidding war that brings out the competitive spirit in the transfer market. Both Liverpool and Arsenal are focused on building strong, dynamic squads, and Hato’s abilities fit perfectly into those visions.
Ultimately, Hato has the potential to become one of Europe’s standout defenders, and it’s no surprise that top clubs are eyeing his progress. The January window could be an exciting one to watch as the Reds and the Gunners prepare to battle it out over this Ajax wonderkid.
